Opposition Leaders Face Violence and Police Inaction During Kisii County Rallies
Kisii, 24 February 2026
Political tensions erupted in Kisii County yesterday as United Opposition leaders including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Jubilee’s Fred Matiang’i, and Wiper’s Kalonzo Musyoka faced disrupted rallies amid violent clashes between rival youth groups. The opposition accused police of deliberate laxity in responding to the chaos at Gusii Stadium, claiming government operatives orchestrated the disruption. Matiang’i was crowned a Gusii elder during the events, whilst leaders vowed to unite the Gusii community against President Ruto’s 2027 re-election bid, promising to prevent electoral malpractice.
Security Forces Accused of Deliberate Inaction
The United Opposition has levelled serious accusations against the national government, claiming police deliberately allowed disruption of their Monday rally at Gusii Stadium [1]. Opposition leaders alleged that security agencies showed intentional laxity by dragging their feet to react to incidents involving what they described as government-sponsored goons [1]. Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Fred Matiang’i questioned why opposition figures faced intimidation in their home regions, asking: “Have I sent people to Sugoi to interfere with other people’s affairs? Why should we be interfered with when we are at home? Are they trying to intimidate me?” [1]
Opposition Campaign Expands Across Gusii Region
The second day of the United Opposition’s campaign offensive saw leaders traverse multiple locations across Nyamira and Kisii counties on Tuesday, 24 February 2026 [1]. The coalition conducted rallies in Nyamira Town, Marani Market, Nyakoe Market, Suneka Town, and Nyamarambe Shopping Centre as part of efforts to consolidate the Gusii vote ahead of the 2027 elections [1]. The leaders are rallying residents of Kisii and Nyamira counties to support their push to make President William Ruto a one-term president, claiming the Head of State has neglected the Abagusii and Kipsigis communities [1].
Electoral Integrity Concerns Dominate Opposition Messaging
Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka issued stark warnings about the 2027 elections, declaring: “This time there will be no vote theft in Kenya, we want him out early” [1]. The opposition leaders vowed to thwart any alleged attempts at electoral malpractice in 2027, insisting they would remain united and field the most favourable candidate to face President Ruto at the ballot [1]. Former Deputy President Gachagua defended his commitment to championing Rift Valley residents’ interests, stating that many Kipsigis community members approached him seeking representation because their leaders had remained silent [1].
Government Critics Allege Opposition Orchestrated Violence
The United Opposition is expected to conclude its rallies in the region on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, amid criticism from government leaders who allege the opposition orchestrated the violence they later condemned [1]. Matiang’i warned against intimidation tactics, stating: “They should respect themselves and conduct their politics properly, but we don’t want to hear about threatening others” [1]. The events highlight growing political divisions and security challenges as opposition movements gain momentum in the region ahead of the 2027 general elections [1].