Protests Paralyze Eldoret–Kisumu Road as Residents Demand Justice for Assaulted Youth,Kennedy Maswai

 

Photo/Kemuma Achieng

 Transport along the busy Eldoret–Kisumu highway was brought to a halt on Tuesday as hundreds of angry residents poured into the streets, demanding justice for , a young man who was brutally assaulted by alleged political goons.

The demonstrations, which began early in the morning near the St. George’s area of Capsulate, saw protesters chanting slogans, lighting bonfires, and blocking major sections of the road. The unrest caused heavy traffic snarl-ups stretching several kilometers, leaving motorists stranded for hours as police struggled to restore order.

Residents accused individuals said to be close to Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi of orchestrating the attack, claiming that Maswai was targeted because of his perceived political stance. According to witnesses, the young man was ambushed by a group of men armed with blunt objects and left with severe injuries.

Maswai was rushed to a local hospital where he underwent surgery for multiple injuries, including severe swelling to his face and eyes. Medical sources say he is in stable condition and recovering under close observation.

“Kennedy was beaten and left for dead by goons who claimed he was working for rival political leaders. He had done nothing wrong—he was only expressing his views,” said a witness who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal.

Photo/Kemuma Achieng

 

Local leaders and residents condemned the incident, describing it as a reflection of growing political intolerance and insecurity in the area.

“We are here to fight for our rights. Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi must stop the empty rhetoric and start delivering development,” said Emmanuel Saina, one of the demonstrators. “We are tired of unfulfilled promises and intimidation. If this is what leadership means, then we reject it.”

Protesters carried placards reading “Justice for Maswai” and “Stop Political Violence,” insisting that those behind the assault must be held accountable.

“We are standing in solidarity with Kennedy Maswai, who was beaten and wounded for speaking out. We demand immediate action against the attackers, failure to which we will take matters into our own hands,” said Victor Madizo, another protester.

“We are not here for harassment or intimidation. We are here for justice for Ken Maswai,” added

The demonstrations also drew the attention of human rights organizations. Activist Juma Akumu condemned the assault, calling it a grave violation of human rights and a dangerous signal of political violence as the country approaches the next general election.

“The young man was beaten and left for dead by goons allegedly linked to the area MP. He underwent surgery — both eyes were swollen shut — but by God’s grace, he survived,” said Akumu. “We cannot allow politically connected individuals to use their power and wealth to silence innocent citizens. This must stop.”

Akumu further warned that the recurrence of such attacks could instill fear among the youth, discouraging them from participating in democratic processes and voicing their concerns.

Police officers were later deployed to disperse the demonstrators and reopen the road to traffic. Kapseret Subcounty  Police Commander  Zephania Kamureng confirmed that investigations have been launched into the incident and promised that those responsible will face the law.

Photo/Kemuma Achieng

 

“We are following crucial leads and recording statements from witnesses. We assure the public that justice will be served, and anyone found culpable, regardless of status, will be arrested,” said the police commander.

Meanwhile, community elders and local leaders have called for calm, urging residents to allow the law to take its course. They appealed for peace, warning that violent protests could worsen the situation and disrupt the region’s economic activities.

Despite these calls, tension remains high in parts of Kapseret constituency, with residents vowing to continue demonstrating until those responsible for Maswai’s assault are arrested and prosecuted.

“We will not rest until justice is served. This is not about politics—it is about the life and dignity of a young man who stood up for what he believed in,” said a resident during the protest.