Faith Chandianya, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and Current Affairs in Kenya

Trouble is mounting for Cleophas Malala, the deputy leader of Rigathi Gachagua's Democracy for Citizens' Party (DCP), after the police summoned him.

Speaking to the press on Tuesday, May 27, Western region police commander Issa Mahamoud gave Malala 72 hours to report to the Kakamega Police Station to record a statement.

Mahamoud said the summons concerned the chaos that broke out during the DCP party’s Western tour in Kakamega on Saturday, May 24, which also led to the impounding of Malala’s three vehicles.

Mahamoud said the law required the deputy party leader to notify the police before holding a political rally, which he said Malala failed to do.

"It was uncalled for. We don't permit processions of meetings, but the law requires them to give a three-day notice prior to the event. This aims to maintain peace and order; that is its purpose," Mahamoud told K24.

He added that on that day, the police also intercepted one of Malala’s vehicles, which was reportedly being driven at high speed in the wrong direction.

"His driver jumped off the vehicle and attempted to escape from the scene but was grabbed by the jacket by the OCPD. He was arrested, and the vehicle is currently impounded. He was injured. We took him to the hospital and he was treated," he added.

The summons comes days after Malala and Nyandarua senator John Methu sought safety following a police crackdown on protesters in Kakamega.

Officers from Kakamega Central Police Station fired tear gas at residents while Malala spoke to a crowd in Kakamega town.

Amid the unrest, Methu narrowly escaped after his vehicle was hit by tear gas and live bullets, forcing him to disappear temporarily.

Earlier that morning, police broke up a gathering at Amalemba Grounds, where Malala was set to address supporters.

To evade the police, Malala was whisked away on a motorcycle into the town’s central business district. Moments later, on Maziwa Road, police surrounded his convoy and released tear gas at his followers.

Residents, led by Julie Nekesa, condemned the crackdown, insisting that the right to assemble is guaranteed for all citizens.

Malala criticised the police actions, reminding Kenyans that their role is to protect the public and urged his supporters to stay calm.

Despite intimidation by security forces, Malala continued to promote the newly launched party and pledged to ensure President William Ruto serves only one term.

Source: TUKO.co.ke