Keroka Probox Torched as Matiang’i Supporters Clash With Suspected Goons in Kisii
Keroka Probox torched incidents rocked Kisii County on Monday, February 23, after political tensions boiled over during a rally linked to Jubilee candidate Fred Matiang’i.
What began as a charged political gathering quickly spiralled into chaos when a Toyota Probox, allegedly ferrying suspected goons, was forced off the road by irate supporters in Keroka.
Supporters Barricade Road as Tensions Explode
According to eyewitness accounts, supporters barricaded the road after spotting the vehicle, which they claimed was transporting individuals sent to disrupt the rally. The Probox was cornered and forced to a halt amid rising tension.
Several occupants reportedly fled the scene as the crowd surged forward. However, two individuals were unable to escape and were cornered by the agitated group.
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Moments later, the situation escalated dramatically.
The two men were subjected to mass beatings before the crowd set the vehicle ablaze. Images from the scene showed thick smoke billowing into the sky as residents gathered around the burning wreckage.
Authorities later confirmed that crude weapons were recovered from inside the vehicle, further fuelling suspicions among the rally attendees. The two injured men were rushed to hospital for medical attention.
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Matiang’i Points Finger at State Actors
Speaking shortly after the incident, Matiang’i strongly condemned the violence but directed sharp accusations at political rivals.
He alleged that certain leaders allied to William Ruto had orchestrated attempts to sabotage his rally.
“Even if the President wants to come to Keroka, he can come, but the issue of sending people here with money to disrupt our rally, we will not accept,” Matiang’i stated.
The former Interior Cabinet Secretary maintained that the attack was a calculated move to intimidate his supporters and derail his political momentum in the region.
Gachagua Praises Residents’ Swift Response
In a surprising twist, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua lauded Keroka residents for what he described as their decisive handling of the suspected troublemakers.
His remarks added another layer of political tension, as rival camps traded accusations over who was responsible for the unrest.
Clashes Spread to Kisii Town
While Matiang’i’s convoy was still in Keroka, separate clashes erupted in Kisii Town between two opposing groups.
One group, reportedly armed with machetes, was said to have terrorised motorists and residents, while another group attempted to confront and stop them.
The unrest sparked fresh concerns about security preparedness amid heightened political activity in Kisii County.
Elders Endorse Matiang’i as Gusii Spokesperson
Earlier in the day, Matiang’i had received a significant political boost after elders from the region endorsed him as the official spokesperson for the Gusii Community.
The endorsement signalled growing regional backing and may explain the heightened political stakes surrounding his rally.
Political Temperatures Rising
The Keroka Probox torched incident highlights the increasingly volatile political atmosphere in parts of the country as alignments begin to shape ahead of future electoral contests.
With accusations flying and rival camps digging in, security agencies are now under pressure to restore calm and prevent further escalation.
FAQs
Why was the Probox torched in Keroka?
Supporters alleged the vehicle was ferrying individuals sent to disrupt a political rally, leading to confrontation and the vehicle being set ablaze.
Were there injuries in the Keroka clashes?
Yes. Two individuals were injured and rushed to hospital.
What did Matiang’i say about the violence?
He accused leaders allied to President Ruto of mobilising goons to disrupt his rally.
Did clashes occur elsewhere?
Yes, separate confrontations were reported in Kisii Town.
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Keroka Probox Torched as Matiang’i Supporters Clash With Suspected Goons in Kisii
