An empowerment event organised by Trans Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang at the Kitale Showground turned chaotic on Saturday after sections of boda boda riders attending the programme broke into chants opposed to the government, triggering confrontations between police officers and members of the public as tension spread around the venue.
The situation escalated into running battles in parts of Kitale town, with police using tear gas to disperse crowds, while videos circulating online showed riders confronting officers and the event venue experiencing disruptions as attendees reacted to the political messages expressed during the gathering.
Chesang, who had organised the motorcycle empowerment programme, was reportedly escorted to safety after the event was disrupted, with the incident attracting political reactions from leaders who linked the unrest to growing dissatisfaction among sections of residents over government engagement with voters.