Leaders Condemn Teargas Incident In Church, Warn Against Rising Political Intolerance

By Bernard Munyao and Purity Mugo

A teargas incident at a Kariobangi church on Sunday, where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was attending a service, has sparked criticism, with a section of political leaders calling for restraint, respect for sacred spaces, and an end to rising political hostility.

Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Dr. Fred Matiang’i strongly condemned the episode, terming it shameful and dangerous to congregants.

He said those who lobbed teargas inside a place of worship endangered lives and undermined Kenya’s values as a peaceful nation.

Matiang’i urged Kenyans to rise above political differences, saying unity must prevail over divisiveness.

“We are first and foremost Kenyans, brothers and sisters of one beautiful nation. Politics will always bring different opinions, but it should never divide us or turn us against one another,” Matiang’i said.

He added that while mistakes can happen on any side, what matters is dialogue, due process, and respectful engagement.

“No one should attack or intimidate another because of political choices. Let us exchange ideas respectfully and use language that builds our country.” He added.

Calling for broader reforms, Matiang’i said Kenya’s current challenges stem from bad leadership, adding that he is ready to lead the country in 2027 if given a chance by Kenyans.

He urged opposition leaders to unite and rescue the country from those destroying the economy through corruption.

At the same time, former Budget Committee Chair and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro also decried the Kariobangi church incident, saying it reflects a worrying trend of state intimidation and electoral violence.

Nyoro said the country is witnessing unprecedented use of force during by-elections.

“This is the first time bullets are being fired during polls in Kenya,” he said in Kiharu Town.

“I have participated in many by-elections before, but I have never seen such levels of force, misuse of money, and police involvement,” he added.

He recalled being tear-gassed during a church service in the past, calling it unacceptable and disrespectful to religious institutions.

“That is the lowest we can go as a country,” Nyoro said, urging leaders to respect citizens’ freedoms and avoid inflaming political temperatures.

The both leaders appealed for calm, peace, and political maturity as the country approaches the 2027 General Election.