Six people injured in Mashujaa Day stampede

By Peter Ochieng

President William Ruto has already arrived at the Kericho Green Stadium in Kericho county, to lead the nation is this year's Mashujaa Day celebrations.

The Head of State arrived at the 10,000 capacity stadium after 9am, a deviation from his predecessor Uhuru Kenyatta who used to arrive at national celebrations at almost midday.

Ruto arrived to the applause of thousands of Kenyans who started trooping to the stadium as easy as 1am.

At least six people, including a minor were injured as thousands of people battled for the limited space.

As they flocked to enter through Gate C, a stampede occurred, resulting in several injuries. Police responded swiftly and restored order.

The stadium was full to capacity by 7am, hours before the Head of State arrived.

The celebrations are also being marked in counties, with County Commissioners being charged with the responsibility of reading the president's speech.

This year’s Mashujaa Day is being celebrated under the theme of Universal Health Care (UHC).