Dramatic scenes as Ruto allies teargassed in Vihiga

Police officers on Saturday dispersed DP William Ruto’s political allies who had convened at MP Charles Gimose’s home in Vihiga.

Officers took down tents that had been hoisted prior to the event and sealed all routes leading to the MP’s home as early as 7am on Saturday.

Images shared on various platforms show several politicians in what appeared to a stand-off with police officers.

Former Kakamega senator Boni Khalwale was addressing several MCAs and civilians who had gained entry into the home when officers lobbed teargas canisters at them.

The Daily Nation reports that Khwalwale and Mumias East MP Ben Washiali had sneaked into the MPs compound through the fence to escape the police.

Khalwale is also said to have poured water on Hamisi OCPD Johana Chebii before hightailing out of the event while MP Washiali bore the brunt of the teargas canisters.

https://twitter.com/Odhiambo_vic/status/1284462024295157760

The senator later said the water was meant for putting out a fire at the MP Gimose’s house that had been sparked by a teargas cannister.

Tear gas sets Hon Gimose's house on fire pic.twitter.com/lt8w1qecnm

— Dr Boni Khalwale, CBS (@KBonimtetezi) July 18, 2020

In the aftermath, Justus Murunga, the Matungu legislator was turned away from the venue shortly after he arrived while the would-be host MP was detained at his house.

Khalwale, several MCAs and their supporters then retreated outside the home of the MP where they engaged police officers in running battles.