GOONS ATTACK MARY BIKETI'S CHARITY EVENT, SEVERAL INJURED

Cooperatives Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya’s partner, Mary Biketi, was on Friday afternoon attacked during a charity event organized by her foundation at the Kitale Museum.

The incident, which left several people injured and property stolen, occurred as the Mary Biketi Foundation held an outreach aimed at supporting youth, women, and vulnerable groups in the region.

“We were proceeding with our programme when goons came and attacked us, stole phones and broke into cars,” Biketi said after recording a statement with police.

Biketi condemned the violence, saying it was unprovoked and regrettable. She clarified that her foundation is not aligned with any political agenda.

“I want to take this strongest opportunity to condemn the violence meted out on our team while undertaking the well-meaning initiative by the Mary Biketi Foundation. My organisation is all about giving back to the community,” she stated.

The attack occurred moments after Biketi and her team arrived at the venue. Eyewitnesses claimed the assailants came from a nearby informal settlement and began hurling stones before descending on the group.

An official from the foundation questioned the motive behind the attack, saying their work was purely humanitarian. “We are here with our foundation to empower locals and give back to society. What has happened is not right. Why chase us away?” the official asked.

Local youth leader Morgan Chesoni, a resident of Kiminini, condemned the incident and said they had clues about the masterminds behind the chaos.

“As youths, we are disappointed. Around 50 goons attacked us for no reason, but we have information on who was behind the violence,” he said. “Mary has not said she is contesting for any seat. It is not yet time for politics. Those using the youth badly need to stop.”

Police have launched investigations into the incident, with security sources indicating that arrests may follow as they pursue leads provided by eyewitnesses.