A group of rowdy youths armed with machetes stormed an event organised by the Mary Biketi Foundation, causing panic among attendees and disrupting the proceedings.
The event which was for the auditions for the Mr & Miss Biketi Foundation was taking place at the Kitale Museum Hall, was intended to identify ambassadors to champion the foundation’s humanitarian mission of uplifting the vulnerable in society.
However, it was marred by chaos as approximately 50 youths stormed the premises, causing panic and forcing the organisers to halt the proceedings.
"The machete-wielding youths broke the rear windscreen of one of our vehicles and stole valuables from us," said Ms Mary Biketi, after recording a statement at the Kitale Police Station.
The coordinator of the Mary Biketi Foundation Penina Makambi expressed shock and disappointment over the incident.
“We were looking for ambassadors to help advance our mission. Suddenly, a vehicle pulled up and armed goons alighted and stormed our meeting. We wonder who is sponsoring them,” said Makambi.
Morgan Chesoni, another official from the foundation, echoed her sentiments, noting that the group was unprovoked and appeared to be on a mission to intimidate.
“I am saddened by the happenings. About 50 youths stormed in, some wielding machetes. We are not a political party — we are here to help,” said Chesoni.
One of the foundation officials, Mr Ali Mukhwana, who was also present at the scene, condemned the attack, terming it “unfortunate and disturbing.”
“What has happened today is quite unfortunate and disturbing. We wonder why we were attacked, yet we don’t have any political ambitions. I call on the youth to shun the politics of tokenism,” Mukhwana said.
The Mary Biketi Foundation has vowed to continue with its activities despite the intimidation, insisting that their focus remains on empowering and supporting vulnerable communities.