Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya was attacked and forcefully removed from Nyayo National Stadium during the FIFA World Cup qualifier match between Kenya and Gabon on Sunday, March 23, 2025.
Salasya, dressed in an AFC Leopards jersey, was among the fans who had gathered to support Kenya’s Harambee Stars in the crucial match.
However, a group of individuals confronted him inside the stadium, accusing him of disrespecting opposition leader Raila Odinga.
A video circulating online captured the dramatic moment when the MP was forcefully ejected, with one person shouting, "Heshimu Raila" (Respect Raila).
At one point, an attacker threw a trash bin at Salasya, hitting him in the face.
His security team tried to shield him, but they were outnumbered by the angry crowd.
The lawmaker was eventually escorted out of the stadium as tensions escalated.
The incident has sparked debate among Kenyans, with some condemning the attack while others believed Salasya’s political actions provoked such a response.
Some social media users argued that football and politics should remain separate, while others accused ODM supporters of fueling the violence.
The Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), under which Salasya was elected, condemned the attack, describing it as a politically motivated act by "hired goons."
The party called for an investigation and for those involved to be brought to justice.
Beyond the political drama, the match itself ended in disappointment for Kenyan fans.
Gabon secured a 2-1 victory, with their captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scoring twice.
Kenya’s only goal came from striker Michael Olunga in the 62nd minute.
The loss was a major setback for Kenya’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Harambee Stars now sit in fourth place in Group F, with six points from six matches.
Apart from Salasya’s attack, the match was also marked by chaotic scenes as fans forced their way into the stadium.
A video shared online showed a large crowd pushing through the gates, determined to watch the game.
The incident has raised concerns about security at major sporting events in Kenya.
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