This archive report was first published on 29 June 2019.
On June 29, 2019, a water project launch in Gatitu, Nyeri Town constituency, turned chaotic after two political rivals clashed.
Unruly locals stormed the venue in Riamukuruwe village where Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mwangi Kiunjuri was launching a Sh261 million irrigation project.
The area MP Ngunjiri Wambugu had arrived at the scene, prompting Riamukuruwe Irrigation Scheme Development Project's chairman to cut short his speech.
The area MCA Simon Muturi was whisked away to protect him from the unruly crowd.
The chaos escalated after Kiunjuri refused to give the MP a chance to speak.
"Why would I be barred from addressing the people in my area," said Wambugu.
Kiunjuri accused some leaders of misleading the residents, claiming it was not a political rally.
"It is unfortunate that you have been complaining over poor development but leaders are sabotaging projects. It does not matter whether you are Kieleweke or Tangatanga, development projects are meant for the people," said Kiunjuri.
The project, being implemented in four phases, is expected to benefit 2000 farmers.
