Chaos erupted in Kariobangi on Sunday after a confrontation broke out outside PCEA Kariobangi during a visit by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. What was expected to be a routine church appearance escalated into confusion and heated clashes, leaving residents shaken and questioning the motive behind the disturbance.
According to multiple eyewitness accounts, disorder began shortly after Gachagua’s entourage arrived at the church. A group believed to be aligned with the former Deputy President allegedly confronted locals and rival political supporters who had gathered near the church entrance. Residents claim that the same group set off tear gas canisters, triggering panic and forcing worshippers and bystanders to scatter.
The unexpected tear gas caused instant commotion, with people running for safety as thick fumes engulfed the church compound. Several congregants described the situation as “chaotic” and “completely unnecessary,” saying the area had been calm prior to the group’s arrival.
Police officers on site scrambled to restore order and separate the clashing groups. No serious injuries were reported, though several people experienced discomfort and breathing difficulties from the tear gas.
The incident unfolded just days after DCP’s David Wanyoike Warui was declared the MCA-elect for the area, heightening political tensions. Some residents accused Gachagua’s group of deliberately engineering the chaos to create a narrative of hostility toward him, while others blamed rival factions for escalating the confrontation.
Church leaders expressed disappointment that a place of worship became the scene of political disorder, urging all leaders to respect sacred spaces and maintain peace.
