Chaos on Kisumu-Kakamega Highway: Youth Light Bonfires to Block Gachagua Convoy
Tempers flared on Thursday, July 3, when angry youth lit bonfires and blocked the Kisumu-Kakamega Highway, temporarily bringing traffic to a halt.
The fiery standoff unfolded as a convoy of top opposition leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i, and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, made their way to political rallies in Kakamega County.
Videos captured thick plumes of black smoke as tyres blazed across the busy highway, forcing drivers to take alternative routes in a desperate bid to avoid the chaos.
Quick Police Action, But Tensions Run Deep
Within minutes, police officers arrived at the scene and swiftly dispersed the youth, clearing the highway for normal transport to resume. However, the brief confrontation had already sent a strong political message.
Despite the disruption, the opposition team reached Kakamega safely and went ahead with planned rallies, where they didn’t hold back.
Matiang’i Fires Back: “This Is Sheer Stupidity!”
While addressing a charged crowd, an emotional Fred Matiang’i lashed out at Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, accusing him of orchestrating the attempted blockade.
“We have seen a leader, elected by Kenyans, trying to stop us from entering this region,” Matiang’i said.
“That is stupidity, because we are in a democratic nation.”
His words drew loud cheers from the crowd as he continued his scathing attack.
“Do you all belong to the governor? How can he dictate who enters here? Go and tell him we are free people,” he added.
“Like us, he can also hold rallies, even in Kisii if he wants!”
A Pattern of Intimidation?
This isn’t an isolated incident. Just two weeks ago, on June 21, Gachagua and his allies faced a similar situation in Meru. There, youth blocked the Meru–Mikinduri highway, forcing the convoy to stop temporarily.
However, residents fought back, chased away the disruptors, and cleared the path for the opposition leaders to proceed.
The Message Is Clear: The Streets Are Speaking
As the political temperature rises, Kenyans are watching closely. From Meru to Kakamega, opposition leaders continue to face resistance—but they’re pushing back hard.
With tyres burning and voices rising, the message is loud—this battle is just beginning.
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Chaos on Kisumu-Kakamega Highway: Youth Light Bonfires to Block Gachagua Convoy
