One Dead, Vehicles Torched as Violence Erupts at DP Kindiki's UDA Meeting in Embu

One person was killed and at least six vehicles were torched on Saturday, September 12, 2026, when violence erupted during a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) meeting addressed by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki at Nembure Stadium in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County.

The Deputy President was evacuated from the venue as tensions escalated following clashes between youths and police officers who had been deployed to maintain order.

How the Violence Unfolded

The meeting had been convened to mobilise UDA polling centre officials and grassroots leaders from across Embu County. However, tensions rose after hundreds of youths who had gathered outside the stadium were denied entry into the venue, which had been restricted to invited officials and designated participants.

The youths turned violent after being repulsed by riot police as they attempted to storm the stadium where the Deputy President was addressing more than 20,000 UDA delegates. Officers fired tear gas to disperse the crowds, while some youths responded by throwing stones at police and into the stadium.

The confrontation later spread to surrounding areas, with several vehicles belonging to delegates and members of the public set ablaze.

Casualties and Damage

Embu West police boss Vincent Kitili confirmed that one person was killed during the confrontation and the body was taken to the mortuary.

"Six vehicles were also torched and three others vandalised," Mr Kitili said.

However, other reports from the scene indicated that up to 10 vehicles may have been burnt during the chaos. The National Police Service had not, by the time of reporting, officially confirmed the reported deaths or provided a final tally of damaged vehicles.

Journalists' Vehicles Targeted

Among the vehicles torched was one belonging to Royal Media Services journalist Edwin Murimi, who covers the region for Wimwaro FM, a station that broadcasts in the Embu dialect.

Murimi was among journalists covering the event when the violence broke out. His vehicle was set ablaze during the chaos, but he was reported to have escaped unharmed.

A vehicle belonging to Getu FM correspondent Kimathi Nto'Miru was also reportedly set on fire.

An ambulance was also reportedly destroyed during the incident, raising questions about why emergency equipment would be targeted during a political confrontation.

DP Kindiki Responds

Following the incident, Deputy President Kindiki issued a statement condemning the violence and directing UDA leaders in Embu to verify the extent of losses and coordinate support for those affected.

"The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party regrets the loss and/or damage brought about by those responsible for organising the youth to disrupt our party meeting in Nembure, Embu earlier today," Kindiki said.

He added: "Our party leadership in Embu has been tasked with verifying the exact nature of the loss and/or damage, and to coordinate responses to stand in solidarity with all those adversely affected in one way or another."

In a separate social media post, Kindiki responded with a cryptic "Sawa" when asked about the disruption.

Political Context

The incident comes as political activities and mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 General Election continue to gather momentum across the country.

The meeting in Embu was part of a broader UDA grassroots empowerment exercise, with the Deputy President also addressing public sensitisation events at Kanyakine and Kibuline markets earlier in the day.

Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, who was also present at the event, later claimed that nearly 10 vehicles were burnt during the disruption.

Investigations Ongoing

Authorities are expected to provide further details on the cause of the clashes, the exact number of casualties and the full extent of property damage as investigations continue.

The National Police Service had not released an official statement on the incident by the time of this report.

For residents of Embu County and political observers, the violence raises questions about security arrangements at high-profile political events and the potential for unrest as the 2027 election cycle intensifies.