The National Police Service (NPS) has denied claims that Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata’s driver was shot during Sunday’s Linda Mwananchi rally in Nyahururu.
In a statement issued on Sunday evening, the police said preliminary investigations showed there was no shooting incident during the disruption of the political rally.
According to the NPS, a group of people attempted to disrupt the gathering by throwing stones, leaving several people with minor injuries.
Police said one of those injured was Joseph Gitau, who suffered a chest injury before receiving treatment and being discharged.
“Contrary to some allegations, there was no shooting incident,” the National Police Service said.
The statement contradicts claims made earlier by Governor Kang’ata, who said his driver, Gitari, had been shot during the rally and was receiving treatment in hospital.
“My driver Gitari has been shot during the Linda Mwananchi rally,” Kang’ata said shortly after the incident.
Police said six suspects have since been arrested over the disruption in Nyahururu and are being held pending arraignment in court.
The service also condemned political violence and warned that anyone found sponsoring or participating in attacks on lawful political gatherings would face the law.
The statement also addressed violence reported in Kisumu, where police said one person was killed, several others injured and nine motorcycles set ablaze following clashes between rival groups.
Eight suspects have been arrested as investigations continue.
The latest developments come amid growing political tension ahead of the Ol Kalou parliamentary by election, with leaders from across the political divide calling for peaceful campaigns.
