A calm Sunday morning that began with hymns, prayers and reflections soon took an unexpected turn for congregants gathered at a church service attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Worshippers had assembled in large numbers, hopeful for a peaceful service, as clergy delivered messages centered on unity, faith and national healing.
However, moments after the service was underway, tension began to build outside the church compound.
Shouts and commotion disrupted the serenity, drawing the attention of congregants and church leaders alike.
What initially appeared to be a minor disturbance quickly escalated, forcing security personnel to intervene as panic spread among worshippers.
Goons reportedly stormed the area, hurling insults and causing chaos, prompting Gachagua, several pastors and members of the clergy to scamper for safety.
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The disruption brought the church service to an abrupt halt, with congregants scrambling for cover as the situation grew increasingly volatile.
Witnesses said stones were thrown and threats shouted, creating fear and confusion within the church grounds.
Security officers moved swiftly to evacuate Gachagua from the scene, whisking him away as tensions remained high.
Pastors who had been leading the service were also escorted to safety amid concerns that the violence could escalate further. No serious injuries were immediately reported, though several worshippers were left shaken by the ordeal.
In the aftermath, church leaders condemned the disruption, describing it as a violation of the sanctity of places of worship.
They called for respect for religious gatherings, urging political tolerance and restraint amid heightened political temperatures in the country.
Some clergy lamented the growing trend of political hostility spilling into sacred spaces meant for peace and reflection.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from political leaders and members of the public, with many questioning the motives behind the attack.
Allies of Gachagua termed the disruption a deliberate act of intimidation, calling on authorities to investigate and bring those responsible to justice.
As calm was eventually restored, questions lingered over security at public gatherings and the increasing politicization of religious spaces, raising fresh concerns about safety and freedom of worship.
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