By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, 30 November 2025 - A peaceful Sunday morning in Kariobangi North turned chaotic when rival youth groups clashed outside a religious venue, forcing police to fire teargas that briefly drifted inside and disrupted the ongoing event.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was attending a thanksgiving ceremony for newly elected Kariobangi North MCA David Warui of Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) when tension erupted near the entrance shortly before noon.
Witnesses said two opposing groups of youths began shouting accusations at each other, rapidly escalating the situation in an already politically charged atmosphere.
Police officers on site first tried to separate the groups and clear the blocked road, but when efforts failed they fired warning shots and deployed teargas.
The fumes entered the venue, causing attendees to cover their faces while organisers worked to keep calm.
“It was spiralling out of control and we acted swiftly to restore order,” a Nairobi County police spokesperson said.
The crowd was dispersed within minutes and no serious injuries were reported, though nearby residents and traders briefly sought cover.
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Mobile-phone footage showed youths scattering in different directions as officers pushed the rival factions away from the area.
The ceremony later resumed without further incident.
The disturbance follows Mr Warui’s recent by-election victory on the DCP ticket, a result that has intensified local political rivalries.
Police have opened investigations to identify those behind the confrontation and warned that anyone found responsible will face prosecution.
“We urge the public to maintain peace and respect democratic outcomes,” the police spokesperson added.
