Kenya’s Ex-Deputy President Claims State Assassination Attempt

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua claims he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Sunday when armed officers stormed a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County, firing tear gas and live rounds. The attack left several congregants injured, vehicles damaged, and Gachagua missing for nearly three hours, raising alarm among his supporters and opposition figures across Kenya.

Gachagua, who leads the Democratic Citizens Party (DCP), was attending a service at ACK Wairima Church when the chaos erupted. He has accused the Kenyan government of orchestrating the attack through what he describes as rogue police officers acting under orders from senior state officials.

Background

Gachagua served as Kenya's Deputy President until his impeachment and removal from office in 2024. Since leaving government, he has emerged as a vocal critic of the current administration and has been building the DCP as an opposition political force. His public activities, particularly church visits and political rallies in his native Nyeri County, have become flashpoints for confrontation.

The attack on Sunday represents an escalation in tensions between Gachagua and the government. Previous incidents have occurred at other locations, including in Kago and Naruk, where Gachagua claims similar attacks took place. The former deputy president has repeatedly alleged that security forces have been targeting him and his associates.

Key Details

According to witness accounts, the church service began normally on Sunday morning. Around midday, armed police officers entered the sanctuary without warning and began deploying tear gas. Congregants, including elderly worshippers and children, fled in panic as choking smoke filled the building.

"I thank God for his mercy and kindness," Gachagua said in a statement following the incident, words that quickly gave way to more serious allegations about his safety.

One of Gachagua's vehicles was set ablaze during the chaos. Several other vehicles belonging to opposition leaders sustained damage, with some tires deflated. Spent cartridges of 7.62 millimeter ammunition were later recovered at the scene, according to Gachagua's claims.

During the confusion, Gachagua evacuated through the fence at the back of the church. He disappeared for nearly three hours, with his whereabouts unknown during that period. His absence fueled concern among supporters and drew immediate attention from other opposition leaders.

Government Response and Investigation

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kip Chumba Murcommen issued a statement hours after the incident, condemning the violence as unacceptable. He said he had spoken to the Inspector General of Police and assured the public that investigations into the attack were underway.

Gachagua has directly accused the government of orchestrating the attack, naming specific police officers and vehicle registration numbers allegedly involved. He claims over 15 police officers participated in the assault, operating under the command of two bodyguards belonging to a government official. He has questioned why local police did not respond to gunfire occurring barely 200 meters from the church.

"This is a government attack well known to keep. Stop pretending that you are shocked that a church can be attacked," Gachagua stated during a press briefing, where he detailed specific allegations against state officials.

Gachagua has expressed skepticism about the government's ability to investigate itself, arguing that an independent inquiry is necessary given the nature of the allegations.

Opposition Reaction

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka condemned the attacks on Gachagua and called for immediate and in-depth investigations. Other opposition figures have expressed alarm about the incident, with some questioning the safety of political leaders and citizens in the country.

The attack has drawn comparisons to previous incidents involving opposition figures and raised broader concerns about the security environment in Kenya ahead of ongoing political developments.

What This Means

The incident marks a significant escalation in political tensions in Kenya. If Gachagua's allegations are substantiated, they would represent serious allegations of government overreach and potential criminal conduct by security forces. The case could have major implications for press freedom, political opposition, and the rule of law in the country.

The government's investigation into the attack will be closely watched by international observers and civil society groups. The credibility of any findings will depend on whether the investigation is seen as independent and transparent. Gachagua's insistence on an external inquiry reflects deep distrust between the former deputy president and the current government.

The incident also highlights the volatile political climate as Kenya navigates post-impeachment politics. With Gachagua building opposition momentum and other political figures rallying behind calls for accountability, the outcome of this investigation could shape the trajectory of Kenyan politics in coming months.