EMBU, Kenya — Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has accused unnamed individuals of organising young people to disrupt a United Democratic Alliance meeting at Nembure Stadium in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County.
Kindiki, who is also UDA Deputy Party Leader, issued the statement after violence erupted at the meeting on Saturday, leaving six vehicles burnt and several people reportedly injured.
“The United Democratic Alliance Party regrets the loss and damage brought about by those responsible for organising the youth to disrupt our party meeting in Nembure, Embu, earlier today,” Kindiki said.
The violence began after a large group that had reportedly been denied entry attempted to force its way into the stadium.
Police officers guarding the meeting lobbed teargas to disperse the crowd, triggering a stampede as those attending the event scampered for safety.
Gunshots were also reportedly heard during the confrontation. Two people were initially feared dead, but police and health officials had not confirmed any fatalities by the time of publication.
Police said six vehicles were burnt during the disturbance. Cars belonging to journalists covering the UDA meeting were among those destroyed.
Kindiki condemned the violence and asked law-enforcement agencies to identify and take action against those responsible.
“The party condemns violence and demands that law-enforcement agencies take punitive measures against all those responsible for perpetuating political violence,” he said.
He did not identify the people he accused of mobilising the youths or provide details showing how the disruption was organised.
The Deputy President said UDA supported political competition based on development records and policy proposals.
“The party stands for issue-based politics and a contest around who or which party has a better development track record and policy goals for Kenya’s future, rather than forcing support through lies, violence and useless slogans,” he said.
Kindiki announced that UDA officials in Embu had been directed to establish the extent of the losses and damage caused during the confrontation.
“Our party leadership in Embu has been tasked with verifying the exact nature of the loss and damage, and to coordinate responses to stand in solidarity with all those adversely affected in one way or another,” he said.
The Deputy President had convened the meeting for UDA polling-centre officials drawn from across Embu County.
He said more than 10,000 party officials attended the event to discuss the government’s delivery record and prepare for political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Police are expected to investigate the cause of the violence, the burning of the vehicles and reports that live ammunition was fired.
