Nairobi's Central Business District was turned into a running battle zone this Monday as police lobbed teargas to disperse a procession led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The "United Opposition" leaders were marching to the Inspector General's office to protest alleged state-sponsored violence.

The chaos erupted near Harambee Avenue when anti-riot officers intercepted the group, which included Martha Karua and Kalonzo Musyoka. The leaders had planned to present a petition to IG Douglas Kanja following a violent disruption at a church service in Othaya weeks earlier. Instead of a meeting, they were met with clouds of stinging smoke, forcing traders to hurriedly close their shops and pedestrians to scamper for safety.

"State Goonism" Allegations

Speaking after the melee, a visibly agitated Gachagua accused the state of intolerance. "We came here peacefully to ask why the police are being used to settle political scores," he told the press. "If the IG cannot meet us, it confirms he is not in charge." The opposition claims that the police are complicit in a pattern of violence targeting their gatherings, a charge the National Police Service has consistently denied.

Escalating Tensions

This incident marks a significant escalation in the standoff between the government and the opposition. With the "Linda Mwananchi" rallies gaining momentum—including a similarly disrupted event in Kitengela led by Senator Edwin Sifuna—the political temperature in the country is rising. [...](asc_slot://start-slot-17)Civil society groups have condemned the use of excessive force in the CBD, terming it a violation of the right to peaceful assembly.

• Event: March to IG Kanja's Office.
• Outcome: Dispersed by teargas.
• Key Figures: Gachagua, Karua, Musyoka.
• Context: Protest against Othaya church violence.

"We will not be intimidated," Gachagua vowed, promising to announce the next course of action within 24 hours.