Ruto Warns UDA Leaders Against Violence Amid Narok Gubernatorial Rivalry

President William Ruto has addressed the chaos that was experienced during the Maa Cultural and Tourism Festival on Saturday, November 14, in Narok County.

Speaking during a church service in Narok, a day after the incident, the Head of State condemned the chaos as he urged leaders at the heart of the chaos to discourage political violence, warning that disagreements over the gubernatorial seat should not divide communities.

The President specifically appealed to supporters of Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu and Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo to remain calm despite their political differences.

"That was not a good picture. I want to ask our brothers, humbly, let us not instigate violence because of politics. I am begging you. Patrick and Gabriel belong to UDA. There is no difference between the two leaders; they are simply seeking votes," Ruto stated.

Ruto noted that both leaders belonged to the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), insisting that their rivalry should not turn into hostility among supporters.

He further called on residents to embrace peaceful campaigns, reminding them that Narok County had only one gubernatorial seat available.

"Regardless of how much we bicker, there can only be one governor's seat; it cannot be two. If it were possible, we would split it, but we cannot. So let us accept the reality," he added.

The President's remarks followed violent confrontations between rival political groups that disrupted the fourth annual Maa Cultural and Tourism Festival.

The festival was held at Sekenani Gate in Narok West, bringing together members of the Maa community for the cultural and tourism celebrations.

Tensions reportedly stemmed from the rivalry between Ntutu and Tongoyo, who are both associated with UDA, as well as factions linked to Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku.

The clashes erupted shortly before and after Ruto arrived, with rival groups reportedly throwing plastic chairs, stones and water bottles near the main dais.

The confrontation also saw banners torn down, tents brought down, and vehicles stoned as the situation deteriorated around the festival grounds.

Police officers deployed tear gas to disperse the crowds, while presidential security personnel formed a protective ring around the podium during the disturbances.

At least 10 people sustained injuries during the running battles and stampede, as the confrontation temporarily disrupted the cultural event attended by the President.

Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu and regional leaders condemned inflammatory statements by political rivals, blaming them for the clashes and warning against turning cultural festivals into pre-2027 election battlegrounds.