Matiang’i addresses safety of opposition leaders after violence in Kikuyu
By Cynthia Lodite, April 11, 2026Jubilee Party presidential flagbearer Fred Matiang’i has confirmed the safety of the United Opposition leaders following the chaos witnessed in Kikuyu, Kiambu County, during the opposition’s rally in the area.
In a statement on his official X account on Saturday, April 11, 2026, Matiang’i condemned the violence, describing it as unacceptable.
Further cautioning that democracy will not thrive where the voice of the people is silenced through force.
Matiang’i further assured members of the public that all the principals of the United Alternative Government are safe.
“This is unacceptable. No democracy can thrive where the voice of the people is silenced through force. I want to assure Kenyans that all principals of the United Alternative Government are safe,” he explained.
According to Matiang’i, the Kikuyu incident struck at the values of Kenyan democracy, further explaining that the rally was a peaceful one and that supporters had gathered in good faith.
“This afternoon in Kikuyu, a deeply troubling incident unfolded that strikes at the heart of our democratic values. Our peaceful rally was disrupted, and wananchi who had gathered in good faith were denied the opportunity to engage,” Matiang’i stated.
“We have since met, reflected on these events, and strongly condemn this act of repression. We will not be deterred. The struggle to restore dignity, freedom, and accountable leadership in our country continues,” Matiangi added.
Gachagua’s remarks
Meanwhile, the former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused Kikuyu Member of Parliament Kimani Ichung’wah of orchestrating the disruption of his rally in Kikuyu using teargas, in what he termed a betrayal of the electorate.
Speaking during the rally in Kikuyu town on Saturday, April 11, 2026, Gachagua claimed that the MP, who has been elected by the area residents for three consecutive terms, had turned against the very people who entrusted him with leadership.
Gachagua claimed that Ichung’wah is working in collaboration with President William Ruto to frustrate his political activities in the region.
“Umeshikana na William Ruto kuangaisha jamii ya Kikiyu. Ni makosa kubwa sana wewe Ichungwah, hawa watu walikuchagua mara tatu kutuma polisi na teargas kuja kuwaangaisha watu walikuchagua,” Gachagua said.
In a rejoinder, Ichung’wah has asked the government to take action against Gachagua over the violence witnessed in Kikuyu.