Governor Ruto airlifted to Nairobi after being injured by teargas canister

Governor Isaac Ruto was hit by a teargas canister on his right eye during a youth function at Silibwet stadium, Bomet County. (Photo: Moses Omusula)

Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto airlifted to Nairobi to seek further treatment after being injured by police during a confrontation yesterday.

A footbal match between Bunge FC and Silibwet FC was yesterday was disrupted after supporters of Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto and National Assembly Deputy Speaker Joyce Laboso clashed.

The rowdy youth pelted each other with stones during the match at Silibwet sports ground for more than 30 minutes.

Police were forced to use teargas and fire several live bullets to disperse the warring groups.

The chaos started on the arrival of Governor Ruto who was escorted by youth chanting Chama Cha Mashinani slogans.

The move irked supporters of the Sotik MP leading to the confrontation. The warring groups engaged police in running battles.

An argument ensued between Governor Ruto and police officers. A handful of his supporters joined him in asking the police to release the arrested youths. Police lobbed teargas to disperse the youths. One canister hit the Bomet Governor below his right eye in the melee. As a result, he sustained a cut.  His security personnel whisked him out of the stadium.