Leaders Condemn Attack on MP Salasya, Call for Political Tolerance

By Eddah Sams

Mumias East Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Salasya was violently attacked on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at Nyayo National Stadium during Kenya’s FIFA World Cup qualifier match against Gabon.

The match, which ended in a 2-1 defeat for Harambee Stars, was overshadowed by the shocking incident that unfolded in front of thousands of spectators.

The attack appeared politically motivated, with some assailants chanting the names of opposition leader Raila Odinga and President William Ruto.

Eyewitness accounts described the chaotic scene as Salasya, dressed in an AFC Leopards jersey, was confronted by a hostile crowd.

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Video footage circulating online showed the legislator being pushed, kicked, and even struck with objects, including a trash bin.

One witness recounted, “It all happened so fast. People started shouting at him, and then punches were thrown. He had no choice but to run.” Police officers eventually intervened to escort Salasya out of the stadium as tensions escalated.

Following the attack, Salasya broke his silence on social media, expressing his disappointment but maintaining his resolve.
. “This was not just an unfortunate incident; it was planned. But I am not shaken. I will continue speaking for the people,” he said.

He later accused political rivals of orchestrating the assault, stating that it was a planned act meant to intimidate him.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from political leaders and organizations.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi strongly denounced the attack, calling for political tolerance and unity among Kenyans.

“Violence in politics is unacceptable. We may have our differences, but respect must be maintained. Let us not turn stadiums into battlegrounds,” Mudavadi remarked.