KITENGELA, Kenya — Police lobbed teargas at a political rally in Kitengela attended by a faction of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino on Sunday.
The incident occurred as Sifuna was introducing leaders who had accompanied him to the event, part of what the faction has branded as the “Linda Wananchi” tour.
Thousands of largely youthful residents of Kitengela attended the rally and had peacefully gathered when the meeting was disrupted.
Videos seen by this publication showed thick smoke billowing from teargas canisters as residents and supporters scrambled to disperse from the venue.
It was not immediately clear what triggered the police action.
Police have been accused of targeting opposition events. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s meetings have been worse affected by police and armed goons disruptions.
The rally comes amid simmering tensions within ODM following the party’s decision to remove Sifuna from the Secretary General position, a move he has challenged in court.
The High Court previously issued conservatory orders blocking the gazettement of his ouster pending the hearing and determination of his petition.
Sunday’s events add a new layer of tension to the unfolding internal party dispute. Political gatherings in Kenya are protected under Article 37 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to assemble, demonstrate, and present petitions peacefully and unarmed.
However, the National Police Service is mandated to maintain public order and may intervene where there are security concerns.
Witnesses at the scene said the rally had drawn a sizeable crowd before officers moved in.
Some supporters were seen fleeing as the smoke spread across the grounds.
There were no immediate reports of injuries or arrests.
