5 Kenyan Politicians Who Were Chased Away by Angry Crowds
In Kenya’s vibrant political scene, public events are important moments for leaders to connect with citizens. However, not every leader is welcomed with cheers. Some politicians have faced angry crowds, protests, and even been chased away from public meetings.
These incidents usually happen when people feel disappointed by unfulfilled promises, political tensions, or poor leadership. Here are five Kenyan politicians who were forced to leave public events after being rejected by the people.
1. Peter Salasya Attacked at Nyayo Stadium
On March 23, 2024, Mumias East MP Peter Salasya was attacked at Nyayo National Stadium during a football match between Kenya’s Harambee Stars and Gabon.
Videos shared online showed a group of people confronting and chasing Salasya out of the stadium. One of them shouted, “Heshimu Raila” (Respect Raila) as they forced him to leave.
Later, Salasya said he chose not to fight back to avoid causing more chaos. Leaders like Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi condemned the attack and called for peace and tolerance.
2. Moses Kuria Ejected from BBI Rally
Former Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria was removed from a Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) rally in Kitui on February 1, 2020.
Kuria got into a disagreement over where he should sit. When he refused to leave, a commotion started. Former Kitui Governor Charity Ngilu reportedly ordered his removal, pointing to his criticism of then-President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Videos showed Kuria being pushed out, but later, leaders like Kalonzo Musyoka and Raila Odinga helped restore calm and allowed him back in. Kuria later forgave those who ejected him.
3. John Mwirigi Injured After Crowd Turns Against Him
On September 11, 2020, Igembe South MP John Mwirigi was injured after being chased away from a meeting in his constituency.
The meeting, led by former Agriculture CS Peter Munya, turned chaotic when locals booed Mwirigi and accused him of crashing the event. Fights broke out, and police had to fire shots in the air to control the crowd. Mwirigi was safely escorted away and later filed a police report.
4. Geoffrey Kingagi Chased by Locals in Mbeere South
Former Mbeere South MP Geoffrey Kingagi faced public rejection on September 2, 2020.
During a public event, angry residents chased him away. Videos showed Kingagi running and even jumping over a ditch to escape. Reports say the crowd was angry because he failed to deliver on development promises made during his term.
5. Kuria Kimani Booed for Attending Meeting While Drunk
In July 2023, Molo MP Kuria Kimani was kicked out of a community meeting after showing up drunk.
The meeting was focused on the serious problem of alcohol abuse in the area. Residents were shocked and angered by the MP’s behaviour and demanded he leave immediately. After the incident, Kimani apologized to his constituents and promised not to repeat the mistake.
Final Thoughts
These public rejections show that Kenyan voters are no longer afraid to hold leaders accountable. Broken promises, disrespect, and poor leadership are some of the reasons why citizens react strongly at public events.
5 Kenyan Politicians Who Were Chased Away by Angry Crowds
