EALA MP Kanini Kega Survives Alleged Gun Attack
East African Legislative Assembly member Kanini Kega has come forward with a dramatic account of narrowly escaping what he describes as a targeted armed assault in Nyandarua County.
According to the lawmaker, armed individuals pursued his convoy, with gunfire ringing out as his team desperately maneuvered to safety. The incident reportedly unfolded shortly after campaign activities tied to the upcoming Ol Kalou by-election, adding fuel to an already charged political atmosphere in the region. Kega, a former Kieni MP, sought immediate shelter in a local residence, where he recorded a message expressing his shock and resolve.
In the widely circulated video, Kega directly appealed to the public while pointing fingers at security forces. He claimed officers had leveled weapons at his group and that only quick thinking allowed them to break free from the pursuit. Standing in his temporary hiding spot, he emphasized his gratitude for the kindness of residents who offered him protection amid the chaos. The former legislator framed the event as part of broader pressures, urging calm heads while highlighting the dangers faced by those vocal in the country's political scene.
Voice caption from the video: "Kenyans, you can see I'm under attack. I've been chased by armed police officers. They pointed guns at me. We were only able to escape."
Kega did not hold back in his recorded statement, addressing the highest levels of leadership with strong accusations. He suggested the confrontation stemmed from political rivalries, even referencing vehicles and prior tensions, while insisting that such tactics would not silence opposition voices. His words underscored a sense of defiance mixed with a call for national unity against intimidation. This episode arrives against a backdrop of heightened sensitivities around the by-election, where multiple parties are jostling for influence ahead of larger national contests.
Voice caption from the video: "Ruto, you are not going to kill us unless you kill all of us. But we are not going to relent. You wanted to kill me over three vehicles. You have even sprayed my vehicle. I am only alive by the grace of God."
As authorities begin looking into the claims, the story has sparked widespread discussion across the country about the state of political safety and the role of security agencies during election periods. Many observers see it as a symptom of deeper divisions, particularly in the Mount Kenya area, where loyalties are being tested. Kega's experience serves as a reminder of the personal risks public figures sometimes face, even as calls grow for transparent investigations to restore public confidence. Whether this leads to clearer answers or further polarization remains to be seen in the coming days.
