'This is an attempted assassination!' Muturi condems Garissa rally chaos

Opposition leaders were attacked on Saturday, September 12, in Garissa County in an incident that former Attorney General Justin Muturi described as an attempted assassination, sparking calls for a thorough police investigation.

Muturi condemned the incident, warning that attacks targeting political leaders could heighten fear among Kenyans and deepen divisions in the country.

“This is an attempted assassination! The attack on opposition leaders in Garissa is a grave matter that must not be taken lightly,” Muturi said in a post on X.

He called on Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to immediately launch investigations, identify those behind the attack and ensure that anyone found culpable is arrested and prosecuted.

Muturi warned that the incident risked dividing the nation and creating fear among citizens.

The former AG, who is associated with the Wantam Movement, said the group would not be intimidated or silenced by the incident.

“We in the Wantam Movement will not be cowed, intimidated, or silenced,” he highlighted.

Muturi said the movement would continue championing democracy, justice and peace while defending Kenyans’ rights to participate freely in the country’s affairs.

“We will not be intimidated. Kenya belongs to all of us. We will continue to stand for democracy, justice, peace, and the right of every Kenyan to participate freely in our country’s affairs.”

The incident occurred as Nyali MP Mohamed Ali addressed supporters alongside Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka.

The youths, estimated to be about 50 and operating in different groups, reportedly began pelting the gathering with stones, prompting leaders and supporters to seek safety in vehicles.

Several vehicles were damaged during the incident, including Muturi’s vehicle.

Its windscreen was reported to have been partly destroyed.

The situation returned to normal after the security detail attached to the opposition leaders moved in and chased the youths away.

The rally brought together several opposition figures, including Kalonzo, DAP-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa, Muturi, Kathiani MP Robert Mbui, Embakasi South MP Julius Mawathe and Mohamed Ali.

His remarks came after Ali condemned the disruption and warned against the use of young people in political activities that could result in chaos.

Kalonzo also urged residents to maintain peace and resist attempts to use them to advance personal political interests.

Muturi said political differences should instead be addressed through constitutional and democratic means.

“If you have any opinion, our Constitution guarantees you the right to say whatever you want to say and associate with any Kenyan,” he stated.

The opposition’s visit to Garissa and Tana River follows a series of regional tours through different parts of the country, including the Coastal region counties, as opposition leaders seek to build grassroots networks and broaden their support beyond their traditional political strongholds.