A peaceful fundraiser in Moi's Bridge Township was thrown into chaos on Sunday after a clash between supporters of Soy MP David Kiplagat and those backing Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii. The event, which aimed to raise funds for victims of a devastating fire that destroyed property worth millions on January 1, quickly descended into violence as political tensions erupted in front of several high-profile dignitaries.
The fundraiser, which was meant to provide assistance to the victims of the fire disaster, began on a positive note with notable figures such as Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi and Bomet Governor Prof. Hillary Barchok in attendance. The venue, Moi’s Bridge, is located along the Eldoret-Kitale highway and is known for its diverse population and bustling atmosphere.
However, the mood shifted dramatically when Soy MP David Kiplagat arrived at the event. According to eyewitnesses and circulating video footage, scuffles broke out almost immediately after Kiplagat's introduction, with a group of goons storming the podium in an attempt to disrupt proceedings. What followed was a chaotic scene as dozens of residents, some allegedly supporting Kiplagat, charged the stage, confronting political leaders and police officers present.
The altercation escalated quickly, with physical confrontations breaking out among attendees. Video clips captured people shouting, pushing, and grappling with each other, prompting security personnel to intervene. Police at the scene appeared momentarily overwhelmed by the sheer number of individuals involved in the brawl, but were eventually able to regain control of the situation.
The root cause of the violent outburst remains unclear, though several UDA leaders present at the fundraiser have suggested that the disturbances may have been orchestrated by local political figures seeking to disrupt the event. Some sources allege that the goons responsible for the chaos were paid to create tension, though this has not been independently verified.
Governor Jonathan Bii, who was present at the fundraiser, condemned the violence and urged calm, emphasizing that the event was meant to help those affected by the devastating fire, not to serve as a political battleground. The fundraiser eventually continued after a brief suspension, but the earlier violence left attendees shaken and overshadowed the original purpose of the gathering.
The incident has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the role of political rivalry in such events and the use of force to settle differences within the political arena. Local authorities have pledged to investigate the altercation and take appropriate action against those found responsible for inciting violence.
As of now, the atmosphere in Moi's Bridge remains tense, with many wondering whether this clash is a sign of deeper political divisions brewing in Uasin Gishu County.
