Chaos erupted after a section of local leaders and journalists were barred for the better part of Sunday noon from accessing Ngangarithi Primary School grounds in Nyeri town where President William Ruto was attending a church service.

Dr Ruto was presiding over the official launch of AIPCA Central and Western Archdiocese.

Commotion took place at the gate of the venue as some Members of County Assembly (MCAs), and journalists were curtailed from entering.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua had not yet arrived at the school.

This prompted the irate lawmakers and journalists to walk away in protest.

After hours of waiting, the security officials allowed the media to enter the venue as the MCAs entered into their vehicles and drove off.

Nyeri County Assembly Majority Leader James Kanyugo said they decided to walk out after a prolonged tussle with the security officials.

"After being barred from entering the venue, we have decided to go and meet our Deputy President who has not yet arrived. We are going to meet and usher him to the venue. It seems we are not recognized here," Mr Kanyugo said.

Political tension rocked the area where leaders allied to President Ruto and those allied to his deputy were slated to meet.

Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga and MPs Geoffrey Wandeto (Tetu), Wambugu Wainaina (Othaya), Maina Mathenge (Nyeri Town), and Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga are in attendance.

DP Gachagua was attending another church service in Kirinyaga and was expected to join Dr Ruto later in Nyeri.

At 2pm, the President addressed the gathering where he told leaders to stop 2027 General Election politicking and focus on development and serve wananchi. 

In the morning, the president had attended the Sunday service at Steward Revival Pentecostal Church, Embakasi West, Nairobi County.