A collage of DCP Part leader Rigathi Gachagua during a campaign rally in Kariobangi North wearing a helmet on November 26, 2025
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has ordered an urgent investigation into the chaotic incident at Wairima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, following allegations by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that his life was targeted.
In his first public remarks since the attack, Murkomen took to social media, urging the police to expedite investigations into the matter. He emphasized that any attacks on individuals, particularly in places of worship, are unacceptable and must be dealt with decisively.
“I have noted with great concern the incident at Wairima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County. Violence anywhere, and least of all in a place of worship, is unacceptable,” Murkomen said.
“The police must move without fear or favour and deal decisively with the sponsors and perpetrators of this act without regard to their status in society or political affiliation.”
The Interior CS confirmed that Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja had assured him that investigations had already commenced. He also appealed to members of the public, particularly residents of Othaya, to remain calm while law enforcement carries out its duties. Murkomen reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding democracy, including the protection of lawful assembly and freedom of worship.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki also condemned the attacks, calling for an impartial investigation. He warned that politically motivated violence threatens Kenya’s democratic principles and violates citizens’ freedoms.
“An impartial, non-politicised investigation of the planners, executors and enablers of this aggression on a place of worship, followed by successful prosecution, is the only way to prevent this behaviour from replacing the democratic contest for leadership based on superior principles, ideas, and programmes for taking Kenya forward,” Kindiki stated.
The security alert follows Gachagua’s allegations that the government orchestrated an attack on him, involving police and militia, during the Sunday service. Videos circulated online showed teargas canisters and what sounded like gunfire, forcing worshippers to scramble for safety. Gachagua also claimed that his vehicles were vandalized during the incident.
Following the attack, concerns about his safety escalated when some allies reported him missing. Later, Gachagua posted on social media confirming that he had safely reached his Wamunyoro residence with the help of residents who assisted his private security team.
“I thank the residents of Othaya for helping my private security to evacuate me to safety. I am now safe, having just arrived at my Wamunyoro residence,” he said.
Prior to the attack, Gachagua had planned rallies in Othaya and Kiawara towns, but these engagements were cancelled due to the unrest. He urged his supporters to disperse peacefully, confirming that the planned roadside engagements would not continue.
The incident has intensified political scrutiny, highlighting ongoing tensions between opposition leaders and the government as Kenya prepares for the 2027 general elections.
