Tension erupted in Keroka on Monday, February 23, when a Toyota Probox vehicle was set on fire during violent clashes between supporters of Jubilee candidate Fred Matiang'i and suspected goons.
Reports indicate that the vehicle, believed to be ferrying the goons, was forced off the road by irate supporters who had barricaded the route. While several occupants fled, two individuals were cornered by the crowd.
They were beaten before the vehicle was torched. Authorities later recovered several crude weapons from the vehicle. The two injured men were rushed to the hospital for medical attention.
Matiang'i condemned the attack, accusing elements aligned with President William Ruto of mobilising goons to disrupt the political rally.
“Even if the President wants to come to Keroka, he can come, but sending people here with money to disrupt our rally is unacceptable,” Matiang'i said.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua praised the residents for responding decisively to the unruly individuals, describing their actions as swift and effective.
Meanwhile, simultaneous clashes erupted in Kisii Town, where opposing groups armed with machetes terrorized motorists and residents, prompting intervention from local supporters to contain the chaos.
Earlier, Matiang'i had been endorsed by regional elders as the official spokesperson for the Gusii Community, a position that has heightened political stakes in the area ahead of upcoming contests.
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Politics