EMBU, Kenya- Two people are feared dead, several others injured and multiple vehicles burnt after chaos erupted at a UDA rally led by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County.
The confrontation began after a large group of residents who had been locked out attempted to force their way into the meeting.
Witnesses said the group believed people admitted to the venue were receiving Sh2,000 and demanded to be allowed inside to receive an equal share.
Police officers guarding the rally blocked the group from entering before using tear gas to disperse them.
Gunshots were heard during the confrontation. One witness said police opened fire, leaving at least two people dead and others injured.
Y News reporter in Embu saw at least one body lying on the roadside after the fracas, and a man who had been shot twice.
A stampede followed as residents fled from the teargas and police charge.
Several people sustained injuries during the rush, although the exact number remained unclear.
Several vehicles were also set ablaze during the disturbance.
It was not immediately established who started the fires or whether the affected vehicles belonged to government officials, rally organisers or members of the public.
Videos circulating from the area showed thick smoke rising near the venue as crowds scattered and security officers attempted to restore order.
Kindiki intensifies Mt Kenya East rallies
The disrupted rally was the latest in a series of political and development engagements held by Kindiki in Embu, Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties.
The Deputy President has repeatedly visited the three Mt Kenya East counties as the government works to consolidate support for President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election.
His engagements have included project inspections, public rallies and meetings with grassroots leaders, many of whom have attended wearing UDA-branded clothing.
On August 28, Kindiki addressed thousands of grassroots leaders at Nembure Stadium in Embu County. He outlined the government’s development programme and asked those present to mobilise support for Ruto’s re-election.
Similar meetings have been held in Meru and Tharaka Nithi.
There have been allegations that some participants are paid to attend the rallies, but neither Kindiki’s office nor UDA has confirmed them.
Kindiki maintains that the engagements are intended to explain government programmes, inspect development projects and mobilise political support.
This is a developing story.
