Kenya Kwanza Economic Forum in Bomet County turned chaotic on June 1, 2022, as supporters of Bomet Governor Hillary Barchok and Chama Cha Mashinani (CCM) Party leader Isaac Ruto clashed.
The event, attended by Amani National Congress leader Musalia Mudavadi and MPs Moses Kuria and Kimani Ichung'wah, was meant to focus on Kenya Kwanza's economic blueprint. However, the speeches were interrupted by heckling from supporters of the two leaders.
Mr Ruto walked out in protest after he was forced to cut short his speech due to jeers from Barchok's supporters who waved UDA flags. Bomet East UDA aspirant Richard Yegon's vehicle was smashed in the melee, and he reported the matter to the police, demanding an investigation and arrests.
"I luckily escaped unhurt. The incident should be dealt with to avert such in future," Yegon said.
At the start of the event, the leaders had agreed to shun political sideshows and focus on the economic blueprint. However, the situation escalated, and a surging crowd built outside the venue, demanding to be allowed in but were blocked by police.
Kenya Kwanza leaders used the event to drum up support for Deputy President William Ruto, calling for a 100 per cent voter turnout. Mudavadi said that for a decisive win to be realised, voters must avoid the risk of a petition that may overturn their win.
"It is our call to you the people of Bomet to turn out and vote overwhelmingly for William Ruto," Mudavadi said.
ANC party boss steered clear of the acrimony, instead focusing on Kenya Kwanza's priorities, saying, "Our focus is not making Kenyans to laze around as they wait for handouts, but we will empower them to eke out a living for themselves."