Since his impeachment in October 2024, Kenya's former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has faced a pattern of violent attacks at public events that raises urgent questions about political stability and state accountability.
The incidents span from Limuru to Kasarani, from Kariobangi to Gatundu South. Each follows a similar script: Gachagua attends a church service, funeral, or political gathering. Armed groups arrive. Violence erupts. Gachagua escapes, sometimes barely.
At a Nyeri cathedral in March 2025, youths blocked Gachagua from leaving after a bishop's enthronement, leading to street battles. In Kasarani in April, gunshots were fired as his private security repelled intruders at a Sunday church service. In November 2025 at Kariobangi North, police used teargas and live ammunition to disperse goons who attacked a thanksgiving service with stones and bottles.
The most severe incidents occurred in January 2026 in Gatundu South and Othaya, where Gachagua reported being "marooned" inside churches. At Witima ACK in Othaya, teargas canisters were lobbed into the sanctuary while children and elderly worshippers were present. Gachagua's vehicle was reportedly torched.
Gachagua has consistently accused the government of orchestrating the attacks, claiming a "killer squad" has been authorized to eliminate him. He alleges that his state security detail was withdrawn days before the violence began, leaving him vulnerable. He points to what he describes as coordination between police and attackers, citing instances where officers allegedly provided safe corridors for assailants.
