Two police officers injured, vehicles torched as political rivals clash in Kitale

• According to the NPS, two police officers were injured and two government vehicles damaged during the incident that saw leaders from the Linda Mwananchi movement tear-gassed in Kitale town shortly after addressing a rally that was held soon after President William Ruto had addressed another one at the same spot.

File image of a police vehicle. PHOTO| COURTESY

The National Police Service (NPS) has launched investigations into clashes involving rival political supporters in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, on Friday evening.

According to the NPS, two police officers were injured and two government vehicles damaged during the incident that saw leaders from the Linda Mwananchi movement tear-gassed in Kitale town shortly after addressing a rally that was held soon after President William Ruto had addressed another one at the same spot.

In a statement issued on October 16, 2026, the police accused unnamed politicians of contravening the Public Order Act, saying their conduct undermined public order and endangered public safety.

“The National Police Service (NPS) strongly condemns the conduct of certain politicians who contravened the Public Order Act, Cap 56, in an incident that occurred today, 16th October 2026, in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County,” the statement signed by NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said.

The incident followed tensions during the burial of Senior Assistant Inspector General of Police Lazarus Opicho in Sirende, Kiminini Constituency, where Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and other leaders associated with the Linda Mwananchi movement were among those attending the funeral.

The funeral programme became tense after some politicians made remarks critical of President William Ruto's administration, prompting security officials to intervene and restrict further speeches. Sifuna, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, were among the leaders who had been denied an opportunity to address mourners.

The confrontation later drew attention to Kitale, where supporters aligned with the Linda Mwananchi faction and those associated with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) reportedly clashed.

The police said investigations had commenced to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.

“Upon their conclusion, appropriate action will be taken against any person found culpable, in accordance with the law,” the NPS said.

The service called on political leaders, their supporters and other stakeholders to exercise restraint and respect the rule of law, warning against violence, incitement and the disruption of lawful gatherings.

It further cautioned that individuals found sponsoring criminal gangs or engaging in acts that threaten public safety would face legal action regardless of their political affiliation or position.