Murkomen Orders Police Probe After Alleged Attack on Gachagua in Othaya
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has directed the National Police Service to immediately investigate an incident in Othaya, Nyeri County, where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua claims he was targeted in what he described as an assassination attempt.
This was Murkomen’s first public response after Gachagua alleged that unknown individuals attacked him during a church service.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms shortly after the incident, Murkomen strongly condemned the violence and ordered police to fast-track investigations, stressing that attacks on individuals—especially in places of worship—are completely unacceptable.
Murkomen revealed that the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, had informed him that investigations were already underway. He urged residents of Othaya and the general public to remain calm and allow the police to carry out their work without interference as they establish the facts surrounding the incident.
“I have noted with great concern the incident at Witima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County. Violence anywhere, and least of all in a place of worship, is unacceptable,” Murkomen stated.
He further emphasized that the police must act without fear or favour and ensure that everyone involved—both the perpetrators and those believed to have sponsored the attack—is brought to justice, regardless of their political standing or social status.
The Interior CS also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to democracy, noting that this includes protecting the right to worship freely and the freedom of lawful assembly for all Kenyans.
Kindiki Condemns Violence, Calls for Impartial Investigations
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki also weighed in on the incident, strongly condemning the attack and calling for thorough, independent investigations. Kindiki warned that any form of violence—whether genuine or politically staged—poses a serious threat to Kenya’s democratic values and undermines the freedoms enjoyed by citizens.
He stressed that only an impartial, non-politicised investigation followed by successful prosecution of those responsible would prevent violence from replacing democratic competition based on ideas, policies, and leadership programmes.
“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 stop this behaviour from replacing democratic leadership contests,” Kindiki said.
Police Confirm Investigations Have Begun
Following the directives from the Interior CS, the National Police Service confirmed that investigations into the incident had officially commenced. The police condemned the attack, describing it as unacceptable and stating that such acts have no place in the country.
In a statement released later the same day, the NPS reaffirmed its commitment to dealing firmly with all forms of criminal activity and ensuring the safety and security of all Kenyans.
“The National Police Service has taken note of a deeply regrettable incident that occurred at around 11am at St. Peters ACK Church, Witima, Othaya, Nyeri County, where several political leaders, including DCP leader Hon. Rigathi Gachagua, were in attendance,” part of the statement read.
According to preliminary police findings, the incident occurred while the church service was ongoing. A teargas canister was reportedly thrown inside the church, causing panic and disrupting the service.
Police also confirmed reports that several vehicles parked within the church compound were damaged during the chaos. However, authorities stated that no injuries were reported.
Gachagua Accuses State of Sponsoring Attack
The police statement came shortly after Gachagua accused the government of sponsoring militia groups and involving police officers in the attack. He claimed the incident was a deliberate attempt to end his life.
Gachagua said teargas was lobbed into the church, forcing worshippers to flee for safety as the service was abruptly halted. He also alleged that his vehicles were vandalised during the incident.
In the immediate aftermath, Gachagua’s allies claimed he was missing, raising alarm and warning of serious consequences should any harm come to him.
Gachagua Confirms Safety After Evacuation
Later on Sunday, Gachagua addressed the claims about his whereabouts, assuring his supporters that he was safe. In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), he said he had managed to escape the chaos and had been safely escorted 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 stated.
Before the incident, the former Deputy President had planned public engagements and rallies in Othaya and Kiawara towns. However, following the attack, all planned activities were cancelled.
Gachagua urged his supporters to remain calm and return home peacefully, confirming that the roadside engagements would not proceed due to security concerns.
He has since officially cancelled all scheduled activities in Othaya and Kiawara as investigations into the incident continue.
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