Tensions within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) spilled into violence on Wednesday after supporters of a newly elected Narok Member of Parliament clashed with those backing his former rival in the party primaries.
The confrontation happened in the early morning at Mboleo area, where the two groups reportedly disagreed over who should take the lead in welcoming and addressing President William Ruto during his tour of Narok County.
Witnesses said the rival groups engaged in a physical confrontation and used crude weapons, including clubs and arrows. Several people were injured during the incident and were taken to different health facilities for treatment.
Some of those injured were reportedly receiving medical attention at Kaplong, Ndanai and Kap Cherllis hospitals in Chebunyo Ward, Bomet County.
The clash came on the second day of President Ruto’s visit to Narok County, raising concern over political tensions among supporters of the two UDA politicians.
According to reports, the confrontation was sparked by claims that there were plans to prevent the newly elected MP from getting an opportunity to address President Ruto during the visit.
The reports are said to have angered his supporters, who confronted members of the rival camp to establish who had the political backing to welcome and speak to the President.
What started as a disagreement reportedly escalated into a physical confrontation, with supporters from both sides attacking each other using sticks, clubs and arrows.
The incident has highlighted the tensions that can emerge between supporters following party nominations, particularly where competing camps remain active after the conclusion of the primaries.
Police officers were called to the area as the situation deteriorated. Authorities are now working to establish what led to the confrontation and identify those involved.
Transmara East Police Boss Kobia Boriu confirmed the incident and said investigations were underway.
Boriu said he was personally leading the investigations into the clash as police sought to establish the circumstances surrounding the violence.
The incident comes as President Ruto continues his tour of Narok County, where he is expected to attend several engagements and meet residents and local leaders.
Police are expected to maintain security in areas where the President is scheduled to visit as investigations into the early morning confrontation continue.