Democratic Action Party–Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa condemned violent incidents that disrupted a political rally in Kakamega a day earlier, urging an end to hostility, intimidation, and violence in the country’s political space.

The former Defence Minister spoke during a church service at the Presbyterian Church of East Africa in Embakasi, Nairobi, where he attended alongside other opposition leaders under the United Alternative Government banner.

The service brought together Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Democratic Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua, PLP leader Martha Karua, and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i.

In his remarks, Wamalwa referenced what he described as the “unfortunate incident witnessed yesterday in Kakamega, Western Kenya,” where clashes broke out during the Linda Mwananchi rally organised by a faction of the Orange Democratic Movement led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino.

The rally at Amalemba Grounds attracted large crowds but was briefly disrupted after teargas was lobbed near the podium shortly after speeches began.

Call for peaceful political engagement

Addressing congregants, Wamalwa said political engagement “must never descend into hostility, intimidation, or violence.” He called on leaders, supporters, and institutions to uphold democratic values, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence while safeguarding national unity and civility.

During the Kakamega rally, Sifuna urged supporters to remain calm despite the disruption, declaring, “Wapige ingine kama watapiga… hii mkutano ni sisi tutamaliza hakuna mtu mwingine.” The crowd remained at the venue, allowing the meeting to continue.

Rising tensions after earlier incidents

The Kakamega events followed earlier confrontations linked to the mobilisation tour. On February 20, a sound truck associated with the rally team was stoned in Kisumu’s Riat area while en route to Kakamega, damaging the vehicle’s windscreen. No injuries were reported.

Gachagua later cited that government officials had mobilised groups to disrupt opposition activities, claims that have not been independently verified. The incidents have drawn attention to growing political tensions in several regions as leaders continue mobilisation activities.

Wamalwa’s remarks concluded with an appeal for all stakeholders to protect the integrity of Kenya’s political environment and ensure that differences are addressed through peaceful and lawful means.