Politician Targeted as Armed Gang Storms Migori Church Graced by Governor Ayacko, Farouk Kibet

Politician Targeted as Armed Gang Storms Migori Church Graced by Governor Ayacko, Farouk Kibet

There was shock and confusion during a prayer service in Kabobo, Macalder Kanyarwanda Ward, Migori County, after a group of armed men stormed the venue. The interdenominational church fundraiser, attended by high-profile leaders including Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko and President William Ruto’s close aide Farouk Kibet, turned chaotic as the gang targeted a local politician in the full glare of cameras.

According to eyewitnesses, the attackers had disguised themselves as ordinary congregants. They mingled with the crowd, hiding crude weapons beneath their clothing.

“They looked like normal churchgoers until they suddenly pulled out machetes,” said a frightened attendee.
“That’s when people started running in all directions.”

Videos shared by Kenyans.co.ke captured the moment the large crowd began to panic. People screamed, stumbled, and rushed toward safety as the attackers closed in on the unidentified politician.

“It was terrifying. Everyone was just trying to escape with their lives,” a local woman told journalists.

Tensions Linked to Vocal MCA Felix Okwanyo

Though no official report had been released by the time of publishing, insiders believe the attack was politically motivated. Sources suggest the violence may have been linked to the presence of Kanyarwanda MCA Felix Okwanyo—an outspoken critic of both the governor and area MP.

“He (Okwanyo) is a vocal opposer of the governor and the area MP,” a source told Kenyans.co.ke.
“There are rumours he wants to run for a higher seat in 2027. He’s also openly condemned the current committee managing gold mining operations in Migori.”

The gold-rich ward has become a hotspot for political clashes, especially since Okwanyo began pushing for greater accountability in mining activities.

“Okwanyo has made so many enemies,” the insider added.
“It’s hard to say who exactly might have sent the attackers, but it was clearly meant to intimidate him.”

Despite the high-level attendance at the church event—including Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi—no leader has commented on the incident.

“We expected the security to be tight, especially with all those leaders around,” a resident remarked.
“It’s shocking that goons could infiltrate such a function.”

Wider Pattern of Political Intimidation

This is not the first time political events have been marred by violence. Just months ago, a function linked to CS Wycliffe Oparanya’s partner ended in chaos after knife-wielding youth disrupted the gathering.

And only days ago, reports emerged of armed men storming the Kenya Human Rights Commission offices to block mothers from addressing the press ahead of the Saba Saba protests.

“We are tired of this culture of violence,” one Migori elder said.
“Politics should not involve bloodshed, especially not in places of worship.”

As investigations continue, Kenyans wait for firm action from local authorities. Many now call for improved security at public events and stricter laws to curb political thuggery.

“We can’t keep living in fear every time leaders gather,” the elder added.
“This must stop.”

ALSO READ: Police Nab Suspects Behind Magunas Supermarket Arson and Looting During Saba Saba Chaos

Politician Targeted as Armed Gang Storms Migori Church Graced by Governor Ayacko, Farouk Kibet