It was business unusual for allies of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as the police blocked and teargassed them on Sunday in Subukia.
The team had attended a Sunday church service at Subukia AIC and even held a rally at Subukia town, but the police mounted roadblocks a few meters from where they were.
Led by Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP)Â Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala, the leaders stepped out of their vehicles to confront the police, who denied them passage.
The standoff attracted the locals’ attention, forming a crowd even though the police informed the leaders that they had not notified them of any rally in the area.
As the standoff continued, one of the politicians’ vehicles sped off, forcing the police to lob teargas into the air. The other leaders were forced to enter their vehicles and leave the scene.
Gachagua has since condemned the incident,, terming it a sign of intimidation by a regime ‘losing its grip on power.’
“The unconstitutional use of police force to intimidate leaders is archaic and a desperate act by a regime that is losing its grip.
Leaders have a fundamental right to assemble, engage in public participation, and express their voices. Police officers are there to provide security, not to serve as tools of repression.
I am truly thrilled that, despite these acts of intimidation, our members’ resilience remains unmatched. We continue to stand strong, united, and determined.” he said
