CS Murkomen Addresses the Nation after Gachagua Attack in Narok
On 24 November 2025, Narok Town became the center of political tension when Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua visited to campaign for his party’s by-election candidate.
Security forces had set up roadblocks and deployed tear gas to prevent large gatherings, but Gachagua reportedly entered the town through village paths, wearing a helmet and bulletproof vest, guided by local supporters.
Upon his arrival, police used tear gas to disperse crowds, an action Gachagua described as state-backed intimidation.
Reports also indicate that his party’s candidate, Douglas Masikonde, and some campaign agents were attacked at home by what were described as heavily armed officers and militia.
In response, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen addressed the nation on 26 November 2025. He condemned the rally, arguing that it violated security directives and was responsible for the resulting chaos.
Murkomen emphasized that the government is committed to maintaining security and that the police had warned against holding the rally to avoid confrontation.
He also stated that while the organizers ignored these warnings, the authorities remain ready to act if credible cases of violence are presented.
Murkomen denied that security agents specifically targeted individuals, asserting that police actions were aimed solely at maintaining order.
The incident has intensified political tensions in Kenya, highlighting allegations of state interference and voter intimidation ahead of the by-election.
While Gachagua’s camp maintains that the security forces acted to suppress opposition, Murkomen insists the chaos resulted from ignoring security advisories.
No independent investigation has yet verified the claims from either side, leaving several details disputed.
Moving forward, attention will focus on whether a transparent investigation will clarify the events in Narok, how neutral institutions respond, and the impact of these incidents on voter confidence and turnout during the by-election.
The Narok situation underscores growing mistrust between political factions and security agencies, with potential consequences for the country’s political stability.
