Murang’a, Kenya – Political tensions flared in Murang’a County after police fired tear‑gas and live rounds at worshippers attending a church service in Kigumo on 28 July. Local leaders allied to former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua condemned what they called a brutal crackdown and vowed to petition the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate the security forces’ conduct. Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu accused the police of violating the constitutionally protected right to assemble and worship, warning that using excessive force against civilians amounted to crimes against humanity.

Witnesses said uniformed officers disrupted the gathering shortly after Gachagua and a group of supporters arrived at the church compound. Video shared online shows worshippers scattering as clouds of tear‑gas filled the air and gunshots rang out. Nyandarua Senator John Methu, whose convoy was reportedly blocked on the way to the service, said officers hurled tear‑gas canisters at his vehicle and forced him to take cover. Methu insisted he was exercising his right to associate peacefully and questioned why security agencies were targeting opposition leaders.

The politicians maintain that the incident forms part of a broader pattern of intimidation following weeks of demonstrations over rising taxes and the cost of living. They plan to submit evidence to The Hague‑based ICC alleging that senior officials authorised the use of force. Kenya’s government has defended the security response, arguing that officers were enforcing public order. Interior officials have urged those aggrieved to lodge complaints with domestic oversight bodies rather than international tribunals.

Legal experts note that the ICC only steps in when national institutions are unwilling or unable to prosecute serious crimes, making it unlikely the court will intervene. However, the petition underscores growing political fissures as Kenya approaches the next election cycle. Religious leaders have called for dialogue and restraint, urging the government to respect the rule of law while asking opposition figures to channel grievances through peaceful avenues.

The Murang’a county administration has launched its own inquiry into the events at Kigumo, promising to compile a report for the National Assembly. Families of the injured congregants say they will sue the police for damages. As investigations begin, rights groups are pushing for accountability to prevent a repeat of the violence witnessed at the rural church.