Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has confirmed that he is safe following a chaotic incident at Wairima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, which saw teargas lobbed into the service and shots reportedly fired, leaving congregants in panic.
In a statement posted on social media, the DCP party leader said he escaped the unrest with assistance from local residents and returned safely to his Wamunyoro residence.
“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,” Gachagua said on X (formerly Twitter).
“I request that thousands of my supporters waiting for me in Othaya Town and Kiawara peacefully go home, as our vehicles have been disabled and sound systems dismantled.”
Gachagua’s clarification came amid widespread concern and speculation that he had been abducted during the melee. He reiterated his earlier claims that the chaos was state-sponsored, involving police officers allegedly acting under specific government orders.
The incident drew swift political reactions. Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka accused President William Ruto and his allies of orchestrating the attack, warning of serious repercussions:
“If anything happens to Rigathi Gachagua, William Ruto, you will not have a country, beginning with yourself. Kenya will hold you wholly responsible,” Kalonzo said.
Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa, who attended the service, described the chaos as traumatic, alleging that several men, women, and children fainted due to the teargas.
“The church was first tear-gassed with the assistance of police. The doors were then locked, trapping worshippers and US leaders, including the People’s DP RiggyG, inside, as vehicles and parts of the church were set ablaze,” Karungo said.
Videos circulating online showed congregants rushing outside, covering their mouths and noses to escape the smoke, while others prayed amid the confusion. The service was temporarily halted, and media coverage was disrupted.
The Othaya incident is the latest in a series of confrontations involving Gachagua at church services and political gatherings, following reports of roadblocks and teargas use during rallies in Kirinyaga County earlier this month.
As investigations into the Othaya incident continue, political observers note that the event has heightened tensions within opposition circles and raised concerns about the safety of political leaders in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
