Kalonzo Musyoka Claims Assassination Attempt After Police Target Opposition Convoy in Kikuyu

Tensions rose in Kenya’s Mount Kenya region on 12 April after Kalonzo Musyoka alleged that police opened fire on his convoy near the Gitaru–Kikuyu Interchange, describing the incident as an assassination attempt.

Musyoka said his convoy, which included Rigathi Gachagua and Eugene Wamalwa, was intercepted by armed officers who used live ammunition and teargas. He stated that the operation endangered political leaders and journalists, some of whom were injured and taken to hospital. He maintained that the response went beyond standard crowd control.

The confrontation forced part of the convoy to divert towards Mai Mahiu, while Gachagua’s group continued to Kikuyu and held a rally under heavy police presence. The situation deteriorated as officers dispersed crowds using teargas and gunfire. 

Clashes spread through sections of the town, resulting in injuries and damage to property. Gachagua adopted a defiant stance, saying he would continue his political activities despite the incident.

The events unfolded amid ongoing political rivalry. Gachagua, who was impeached as Deputy President in October 2024, has repeatedly clashed with Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, a close ally of William Ruto. Their dispute intensified during the burial of former Ol Kalau MP David Kiaraho, where Gachagua accused Ichung’wah of backing violence in the region.

In response, Ichung’wah accused Gachagua of instigating unrest and pursuing a campaign driven by personal and political motives. He called for investigations into the incident and said all individuals involved should be held accountable under the law.

The differing accounts reflect growing political divisions. Opposition leaders argue that the use of live ammunition against their convoy signals an escalation in state action, while government allies contend that the unrest was deliberately provoked.