A planned political gathering led by former Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza in Tigania East turned violent on Sunday. Police clashed with her supporters, using tear gas and gunshots to break up the crowd.
The gathering was meant to strengthen Mwangaza’s support before the 2027 elections. However, it quickly turned into clashes between the police and the attendees.
People watching the event reported that tensions grew when police tried to stop the gathering, claiming it didn’t have the right permits.
Supporters, who were shouting slogans in support of Mwangaza, resisted the police orders. This led the police to use tear gas and even live bullets in some cases.
“We were gathered peacefully when the police started throwing tear gas at us,” said John Kinyua, a local resident. “Everyone was running in different directions, and we heard gunshots. It was very chaotic.”
At least three people were hurt during the violence, and there are unconfirmed reports of arrests.
Mwangaza was present at the rally and criticized the police for their actions, saying they were stopping her from carrying out her political activities.
“This is an attack on our democracy. My supporters have the right to gather and express their views,” she told reporters before being taken away by her security team.
Meru County Police Commander James Kithuku defended the police actions, saying the rally broke public order rules.
“We had information about possible unrest, and the organizers did not follow legal rules. Our officers acted to bring back peace,” he stated.
This violence has angered Mwangaza’s supporters, who believe the police crackdown is politically motivated.
The incident adds to the ongoing issues between the former governor and local authorities since her impeachment in 2024.
Local leaders have urged people to stay calm while an investigation into the incident begins. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has announced that it will look into claims of excessive force used by the police.
