Salasya chooses peace over retaliation after Nyayo Stadium attack

Mumias East MP Peter Salasya at a past interview. PHOTO/@salasyaPeter/X

Mumias East Member of Parliament (MP) Peter Salasya has come out to openly welcome his transformation after the violent incident at Nyayo National Stadium during the FIFA World Cup qualifier match between the Kenya National men’s football team, Harambee Stars, and Gabon on March 23, 2025.

In a statement shared on his official social media channels on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, Salasya asserted his commitment to peace by highlighting how he has kept his temper in check and remained focused.

He attributed the fact that he was able to remain calm to divine guidance.

“Nowadays, I am a good boy. Nilipunguza ata hasira niliomba Mungu akanitoa. Niko tu harmless and focused tangu nipigwe Nyayo stadium (I have even reduced my anger; I prayed to God, and He delivered me. I am now harmless and focused since I was beaten at Nyayo Stadium),” Salasya said.

Peter Salasya's statement shared on his X account disclosing that he has chosen peace. PHOTO/@pksalasya/X
Peter Salasya’s statement shared on his X account disclosing that he has chosen peace. PHOTO/@pksalasya/X

Salasya attacked

On Sunday, March 23, 2025, Salasya was attacked by a group of individuals during the Harambee Stars’ World Cup qualifier match against Gabon.

The youthful lawmaker, who had joined thousands of fans to watch the highly anticipated match, found himself at the centre of a violent altercation. Videos circulating online show one of the attackers striking the MP with a trash bin as his security team attempted to shield him from further harm.

As the chaos ensued, some spectators were heard shouting at the youthful legislator, demanding that he show respect for President William Ruto.

“Heshimu rais,” they chanted.

The situation quickly escalated, forcing the legislator’s security team to escort him out of the stadium. Footage captured Salasya, who was donning the AFC Leopards’ jersey, rushing towards his car, surrounded by bodyguards who worked to ensure his safety.

Salasya being escorted by security to his car for safety. PHOTO/Screengrab by K24 Digital from video posted on X by @TeyaKevin
Salasya being escorted by security to his car for safety. PHOTO/Screengrab by K24 Digital from video posted on X by @TeyaKevin

Salasya on the ordeal

Salasya, who had earlier encouraged fans to attend the match at Nyayo Stadium, lamented the violence, stating that it could have led to injuries among spectators or even the postponement of the crucial game between Kenya and Gabon.

“It could have caused many lives at Nyayo Stadium and may be postponed of the coveted game Kenya vs Gabon,” he said.

The MP further claimed that the attack was premeditated, explaining that he had been closely monitored from the moment he arrived at the stadium. According to him, an individual warned him at the entrance, and a group of about ten people persistently followed him around the stadium, hurling insults as they closed in.

“They took advantage of that; they knew I would be there. Football brings people together as a country, so I did not bring bodyguards, just a friend to enjoy the game and support. The moment I entered, there was a person who warned me at the gate; there was someone who was following me, and even when I went to the VIP section, he was still following me. The other guys – there were, like, ten guys – they were just somewhere following me, throwing insults as they approached,” Salasya shared.