Rigathi Gachagua, a prominent figure in the Kenyan opposition, has alleged an attempt on his life during a church service on Sunday.
Gachagua, who faced impeachment and was subsequently removed from his position as deputy president in 2024, claimed that a group of rogue police officers attacked St. Peters Anglican Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, with bullets and tear gas.
He has accused President William Ruto, his former ally, of ordering the attack, though he has not provided evidence to support this claim. President Ruto has yet to issue a statement. However, Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen has condemned the violence, deeming it unacceptable.
Police have stated that an investigation has been launched and that no injuries have been reported in connection with the incident.
Reports indicate that a tear gas canister was thrown inside the church at approximately 11:00 local time (08:00 GMT), disrupting the service.
Several vehicles within the church compound were reportedly damaged, according to police, who are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Gachagua, a businessman from the Mount Kenya region and a vocal critic of the president, stated that he was escorted to safety by his security detail.
He shared images of the incident on X and later addressed the media, dismissing suggestions from pro-government bloggers that the attack was staged.
“Where can we get access to tear gas?… Where do we get access to AK-47 assault rifles?” the Democracy for the Citizens Party leader questioned.
Minister Murkomen stated that the police chief has assured him that the attackers will be brought to justice.
“Violence anywhere, and least of all in a place of worship, is unacceptable,” the interior minister posted on X.
“The police must move without fear or favor and deal decisively with the sponsors and perpetrators of this act without regard to their status in society or political affiliation.”
As per the Kenyan constitution, Gachagua’s conviction by the senate disqualifies him from holding public office again.
He had pleaded not guilty to 11 charges but was convicted on five counts, including inciting ethnic divisions and violating his oath of office.
However, the politician, widely known as Riggy G, maintains his intention to be on the presidential ballot next year, citing his ongoing appeal and the Supreme Court’s pending ruling on his impeachment.
Ruto and Gachagua were elected on a joint ticket in 2022, a partnership that aided Ruto’s victory by consolidating support in Mount Kenya, the Kikuyu heartland and the largest voting bloc in Kenya.
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