Chaos at Gachagua’s Party Launch: Gunshots Fired as Tension Escalates in Nairobi

Nairobi was thrown into confusion on Thursday morning when chaos broke out at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s political party launch.

The event, held in the upscale Lavington area, ended abruptly after gunshots rang out moments after Gachagua and other senior officials of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) had exited the venue.

A crowd that had gathered at the gates surged forward, creating panic. Police officers on high alert responded by firing shots into the air to control the scene. The incident has since stirred mixed reactions across the country.

The swift intervention by police during the incident also raises questions about the state’s involvement and whether the chaos was coincidental or a sign of deeper resistance to his political comeback. [Photo:X/DCP]

Gunfire and Confusion as Chaos Erupts Outside Party Headquarters

Chaos at Gachagua’s Party Launch began just after the former DP left the party’s headquarters. Videos circulating online captured the tense moments. One clip showed a man, believed to be a police officer, firing his weapon in the air.

Another armed individual, thought to be part of Gachagua’s security detail, could be heard shouting, “Remove the vehicle!” as people tried to force their way through a congested exit. The situation appeared to have caught both police and security guards off guard.

As the crowd surged, the former DP’s motorcade was forced to stop temporarily. Officers scrambled to manage the crowd, which had grown rowdy, with many hoping to catch a glimpse of the political figures in attendance.

The confusion lasted about five minutes before police managed to restore order. No injuries were reported during the incident. However, questions remain about how such a lapse in security happened at such a high-profile event.

Nairobi police have not yet released an official statement, but many are calling for a full investigation into the security breaches and the role of the armed personnel involved.

Gachagua Unveils New Political Movement Amid Rising Political Heat

Earlier that morning, Gachagua had launched the Democracy for the Citizens Party, marking his return to frontline politics. The event attracted several political allies, including former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala and ex-Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi.

Taking the podium first, Gachagua declared the party’s mission as one that prioritizes listening to the people. “We finally have a political party that listens to the people,” he said. The slogan, “Please, listen to Kenyans,” reflects his call for a shift in leadership style.

The new party’s logo features fingers pressed to an ear, set against a neon green and white background, reinforcing the party’s commitment to public engagement. Gachagua emphasized that this is not just symbolism but a call to action. He encouraged leaders to connect with ordinary citizens and take their concerns seriously.

He also named Malala as the party’s deputy leader and Linturi as the National Organising Secretary. Both appointments hint at Gachagua’s strategy to unite key political players as he attempts to build a strong opposition force.

Gachagua’s decision to front a new party and position it as a voice of the people could complicate future coalitions, especially as the 2027 general elections approach. [Photo: Courtesy]

Political Tensions Rise as Gachagua’s Move Shakes Power Blocs

Chaos at Gachagua’s Party Launch highlights the mounting tension in Kenya’s political landscape. With the former Deputy President now officially leading a new party, the move is seen by many as a challenge to the current administration and ruling party alliances.

Observers note that the DCP launch may signal a deepening rift within Kenya’s political elite. Gachagua’s decision to front a new party and position it as a voice of the people could complicate future coalitions, especially as the 2027 general elections approach.

While Gachagua has not directly declared his next political move, many believe the launch signals his ambition to remain a key player in national politics.

The swift intervention by police during the incident also raises questions about the state’s involvement and whether the chaos was coincidental or a sign of deeper resistance to his political comeback.

For now, Gachagua’s message remains clear — he wants leaders to reconnect with the people. Whether his new party will gain enough traction remains to be seen, but Thursday’s launch has already captured national attention for both its message and the dramatic scenes that followed.

Key Takeaways:

• Gunshots were fired outside the DCP launch in Lavington, Nairobi, as police tried to disperse a crowd.
• Former DP Rigathi Gachagua unveiled his new party with the slogan “Please, listen to Kenyans.”
• Gachagua appointed Cleophas Malala and Mithika Linturi as key officials in the new party.
• The launch hints at growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections.

The dramatic events of the day have left many wondering what comes next in Kenya’s evolving political drama. One thing is certain — Gachagua is back, and he wants to be heard.