What was expected to be a routine political stopover turned chaotic in Tigania East, Meru County, on Saturday afternoon, as simmering tensions between rival camps boiled over into open confrontation.
The unrest unfolded along the Meru–Mikinduri highway when a group of youths, reportedly opposed to the planned visit by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, ignited bonfires and blocked the road in protest. Tyres were set ablaze, halting traffic on the usually busy stretch and disrupting normalcy in the region.
Footage circulating on social media captured scenes of disarray, with thick plumes of smoke rising into the sky and stranded motorists forced to make abrupt detours.
However, the resistance was short-lived. Another group, believed to be local residents supportive of Gachagua, swiftly mobilised to confront the agitators. A tense showdown ensued, with the residents eventually overpowering the protestors and clearing the highway to allow the former DP’s convoy passage.
Once the rally resumed, political undertones took center stage. A vocal legislator allied to Gachagua did not mince words, accusing a local rival of orchestrating the disruption.
“We reject any form of political intimidation,” the MP declared to the crowd. “Tigania East stands for peace and progress. The endorsement has already been made one term, one ticket.”
The incident has reignited concerns over political intolerance and the increasingly charged atmosphere ahead of future campaign activities in the region.
