Gunshots Fired as Goons Disrupt Gachagua’s DCP Party Launch

• May 15, 2025

Chaos broke out during the official launch of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua when a group of rowdy individuals stormed the event, forcing police to fire shots in the air. The incident happened on Thursday morning, May 15, at the DCP headquarters on Musa Gitau Road in Lavington, Nairobi.

The disruption occurred just as Gachagua was concluding his speech and announcing the party’s leadership lineup. Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers appeared determined to derail the event, which marked Gachagua’s entry into a new chapter of his political career. The situation quickly escalated, prompting police officers stationed at the venue to intervene.

To control the rowdy crowd, police discharged gunshots into the air, causing panic among attendees. Videos from the scene captured a police officer firing his weapon while people scrambled toward the main gate. In the confusion, some of the intruders were allegedly beaten by security personnel before being subdued. Gachagua’s security team swiftly moved to protect party officials, ensuring their safety as tensions rose.

The commotion briefly disrupted Gachagua’s motorcade, but security forces managed to restore order within five minutes. Despite the intensity of the situation, no fatalities were reported.

Preliminary police investigations suggest that the attack was a coordinated effort by hired goons. Authorities have since launched a probe to uncover the motives behind the disruption and to identify those responsible. The violent interruption has drawn widespread condemnation, with many Kenyans criticizing the use of force in political activities.

Following the incident, Gachagua remained calm and reaffirmed his commitment to the newly formed party. He explained that the DCP is the result of six months of consultations with various stakeholders. Gachagua emphasized that the party aims to address the country’s governance challenges and present a credible alternative for Kenyans frustrated by the current political leadership.

The DCP’s launch was intended to introduce a fresh leadership approach focused on citizen-centered governance. As investigations continue, the violent attack has already sparked public debate on the need for peaceful political engagement.