Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has directed United Democratic Alliance (UDA) leaders in Embu to establish the extent of losses and damage caused by clashes that disrupted the party’s meeting on Saturday afternoon.In a statement moments after the incident, Kindiki said the party leadership should immediately verify the exact nature of the damage and coordinate a response to support those affected.“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,” Kindiki said.The directive came after chaos erupted at the stadium in Nembure where the UDA meeting was being held, with groups of local youths reportedly denied entry into the venue.The incident quickly escalated into running battles involving crowds, opposing groups and police officers, forcing the security officers to evacuate Kindiki.During the incident, several vehicles outside the stadium were also set on fire by angry crowds during the confrontation, with preliminary reports indicating that up to 10 vehicles were burnt.Among the vehicles torched was a car belonging to a media correspondent who was covering the political event.In his speech, Kindiki condemned the violence and called on law enforcement agencies to take action against those responsible for the disruption and destruction.“The party condemns violence and demands that law enforcement agencies take punitive measures against all those responsible for perpetuating political violence,” he said.The DP maintained that UDA supported issue-based politics and competition based on development records and policy proposals rather than violence.“Our party stands for issue-based politics and a contest around who or which party has a better development track record and policy goals for Kenya’s future,” Kindiki said.He further accused those behind the violence of attempting to force political support through what he described as lies, violence and useless slogans, insisting that political competition should remain peaceful.
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