Cobra disrupts rally as guests scamper for safety

A huge snake caused a stir when it tried to attack guests at a political rally in Yatta, Machakos yesterday.

Chama Cha Uzalendo (CCU) party leader Wavinya Ndeti, secretary general Saja Philipe, organising secretary Davies Musau and Machakos County Assembly deputy speaker Nganga wa Ngangani had just taken their seats when the cobra appeared.

Screams from the crowd drew the attention of the leaders who climbed on top of the tables. Quick intervention by wananchi saved the leaders at the event in Yatta, Machakos.

Wavinya's bodyguard dashed to the scene to help his boss as screams rent the air.

But within no time, the five-feet-long cobra had been killed after locals attacked it with stones and sticks.

CCU leaders had just opened an office at Makutano market in Ikombe ward about two hundred metres away when hell broke loose.

The snake was later carried away and set on fire as the frightened guests and the crowd returned to the meeting.

Some even said the snake may have been sent to the venue. According to Kamba traditions, some said, such incidents don't just happen and someone must be behind them. However, Christians who were there dismissed the notion.

A section of ODM and Narc Kenya leaders said they will support Wavinya's governorship bid.

Nganga said although he was elected on a Narc Kenya ticket, he will back Wavinya, who is seeking to unseat Governor Alfred Mutua.

During the rally, Wavinya described Mutua as a failure and accused him of not fulfilling his pledges to the people.

ODM county secretary Dominic Kaleli and a CORD commissioner for elections Peter Mutulu also promised to support to Wavinya.

Wavinya said her party will support CORD's presidential candidate if Kalonzo Musyoka is picked as flag bearer.

''Our stand is very firm, if CORD picks Kalonzo, then they should expect our total support. Kalonzo has been supporting other candidates and time has come for others to back him," she said