Police Reject Kang’ata’s Claim Driver Was Shot During Chaotic Nyahururu Rally as Six Suspects Arrested
The National Police Service (NPS) has dismissed claims by Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata that his driver was shot during violent scenes that disrupted the Linda Mwananchi rally in Nyahururu on Sunday, insisting that preliminary investigations found no evidence of a shooting.
The incident unfolded after opposition leaders allied to the Linda Mwananchi movement held political activities in Nyahururu, Laikipia County, where confrontations erupted as groups allegedly attempted to disrupt the gathering.
In a statement released on Sunday, July 12, 2026, the National Police Service said the violence involved individuals who threw stones at the rally, causing minor injuries to several people, but maintained that reports of a shooting were inaccurate.
“Contrary to some allegations, there was no shooting incident. Police responded promptly and arrested six suspects, who have been placed in custody pending arraignment,” the NPS said.
According to police, one of those injured was Joseph Gitau, Governor Kang’ata’s driver, who sustained a chest injury during the unrest before receiving treatment and being discharged from hospital.
“In Nyahururu Town, a group of individuals attempted to disrupt a political rally by throwing stones, causing minor injuries to several members of the public, including one Joseph Gitau, who sustained a chest injury and was treated and discharged,” the statement added.
The police clarification came just hours after Kang’ata publicly alleged that his convoy had come under attack after attending a church service at AIPCA Nyahururu Cathedral before proceeding to the Linda Mwananchi rally.
Speaking after the incident, the Murang’a governor claimed his vehicle had been blocked and his driver shot during the confrontation.
“My driver was injured by police. There was a shooting incident where he was shot. He’s currently in hospital. He has a bullet lodged in his chest. We are yet to ascertain whether it’s a live bullet or a rubber bullet,” Kang’ata claimed.
The governor further alleged that organised groups armed with stones confronted the opposition delegation and disrupted the political meeting.
His account was echoed by other Linda Mwananchi leaders, including Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi and Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi, who accused security agencies of failing to protect opposition supporters.
The leaders further alleged that police had repeatedly failed to stop attacks targeting opposition events and demanded independent investigations into the violence.
NPS Condemns Political Violence
While disputing the shooting allegations, the National Police Service strongly condemned the violence witnessed in both Nyahururu and Kisumu, warning that political intolerance would not be tolerated.
“The Service strongly condemns these acts of political intolerance, violence and goonism. Such incidents undermine public order, threaten national cohesion and violate citizens’ constitutional rights to peacefully associate, assemble and participate in political activities,” the statement read.
Police also provided an update on separate unrest reported in Kisumu, where clashes between rival groups allegedly left one person dead, several others injured, nine motorcycles burnt and a police vehicle damaged.
According to the NPS, officers intervened and arrested eight suspects in connection with the Kisumu violence, while six suspects were arrested following the Nyahururu disturbances. All are expected to be arraigned in court.
The service further warned that anyone found engaging in political violence, sponsoring criminal gangs, inciting supporters or disrupting lawful gatherings would face legal action regardless of their political affiliation or public office.
“The National Police Service reiterates that no person—regardless of social status, political affiliation or public office—is above the law. Anyone found engaging in violence, sponsoring criminal gangs, inciting supporters or disrupting lawful gatherings will be dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law.”
The police also appealed to members of the public to cooperate with investigators by reporting any information that could assist ongoing investigations through the nearest police station or anonymous reporting channels.
Also Read: Kang’ata Claims Driver Shot as Suspected Goons Disrupt Linda Mwananchi Rally