Public Participation: Chaos erupts at Bomas as activist Morara Kebaso attacked

Morara Kebaso during public participation on the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at Bomas. (Collins Oduor, Standard]

Chaos broke out at the Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi during public participation hearings on the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, which are taking place nationwide.

A group of youths attending the session at Bomas attacked Kebaso, hurling chairs at him as he scrambled to escape the crowded hall.

The activist was forcibly ejected before he could present his views on Gachagua’s impeachment.

Morara took to his X platform to explain what transpired and confirmed that indeed he was hurt during the melee and was seeking treatment.

"I was barred from entering Bomas at the gate. When I finally got in, I was denied the mic at Bomas's floor. Chaos erupted. I am hurt. Headed to hospital. I live to speak another day," he posted.

It remains unclear whether the violence was premeditated, as different factions of youths clashed over their opposing stances on the impeachment.

The forum at Bomas was led by several lawmakers, including Ruaraka MP Tom Kajwang', Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie, and Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi.

During the chaos, Kajwang' intervened, urging the youth to respect all opinions while calling on the police to restore order.

"It was a joint ticket between President William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua, and they have both failed Kenyans. We don’t have to crucify one and spare the other. They should both go home," said Lucy Wanyokie, a Starehe resident.

But, Ken Wanjau expressed a different view, arguing that Gachagua is a national leader who has traversed all counties. He dismissed claims that Gachagua is divisive and tribal, saying, "Gachagua should continue serving. It is wrong to accuse him of dividing Kenyans and labeling him a tribal leader."

The hearings are ongoing in several counties, including Murang'a, Nyeri, Kisii, Mombasa, and Kajiado, with heightened security measures in place across the country.