NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya’s united opposition has formally notified the Inspector General of Police of an intended visit to his office on Friday, January 30, seeking urgent intervention over what it describes as sustained attacks, harassment and intimidation of opposition leaders and supporters across the country.
In a letter dated January 29 and signed by Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malalah, the opposition says it plans to raise “serious complaints” and engage police leadership on security concerns affecting opposition activities.
The opposition claims that despite reporting multiple incidents to police stations and relevant commands, no investigations, updates or corrective action have been communicated by the National Police Service (NPS).
According to the letter, the complaints span incidents reported between November 2024 and January 2026, involving alleged attacks by organised gangs, some reportedly operating alongside or under police presence, during funerals, church services, political meetings and rallies.
We deliver petition to IG tomorrow morning @NPSOfficial_KE @NPSC_KE @IPOA_KE
Among the incidents cited are an alleged attack on DCP party leader Rigathi Gachagua during a funeral in Limuru in November 2024; the use of teargas against opposition supporters in Shamata, Nyandarua County; and multiple disruptions of church services in Nyeri, Nairobi, Meru, Bungoma, Kakamega and Narok counties.
The opposition further alleges that several attacks occurred while leaders were under police escort, including incidents in Naivasha, Chwele and Kinyona, Murang’a County, where live ammunition was allegedly used during a confrontation in July 2025.
More recent claims include the ambushing of Gachagua’s motorcade in Sagana earlier this month, the seizure of communication equipment worth over Sh1 million, and the torching of vehicles and teargassing of worshippers during a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County, on January 25.
The opposition argues that the pattern of violence undermines constitutional guarantees of political freedom, safety and equal protection under the law.
“Given the constitutional mandate of the National Police Service to provide security impartially and protect all citizens regardless of political affiliation, the opposition leadership considers it necessary to seek direct engagement,” the letter states.
The delegation expected at Jogoo House will include senior opposition figures Rigathi Gachagua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Fred Matiang’i, Eugene Wamalwa, Martha Karua, Justin Muturi and Omingo Magara.
The opposition says the meeting is aimed at agreeing on remedial measures to safeguard political activities and prevent further violence, warning that failure to address the concerns could threaten national stability and democratic governance.
Police had not immediately responded to the claims by the time of publication.
