Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua reportedly encountered an attempted police blockade while attending a church service in Nairobi recently.
According to eyewitnesses and insiders as reported by NMG, the detectives who drove in unmarked Subaru vehicles often associated with police operations claimed Gachagua’s presence in the church as a threat to national security.
The police cited security incidents in Nairobi and recent political tensions as a reason for their measures.
This assertion has raised particular concerns and questions within security and political circles, which termed such interventions as only reserved for serious and high-risk security breaches.
The incident has also attracted criticism from supporters of Gachagua and his political fan base, who interpret the blockade as an attempt to limit his visibility and influence.
The claim has amplified the suspicions of a deepening rift between some government factions and Gachagua.
Political analysts are speculating deeper issues of internal conflict within the ruling coalition, with some suggesting that such tactics might be issued to align with certain government specifications and curb Gachagua’s public reach.
The standoff also highlights the increasing political temperatures in Kenya, with Gachagua followers demanding his freedom to attend public gatherings and religious functions considering his leadership role.
However, The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has dismissed the allegations as unsubstantiated, and a misrepresentation of the agency’s actions and intentions.
The DCI attributed the misinformation to a local media publication, calling it to uphold truthfulness in reporting, especially when covering matters involving national institutions and high-profile individuals.
The agency reaffirmed its dedication to safeguarding the rights of individuals and institutions, asserting its respect for the freedom of worship and the autonomy of religious organizations.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua attended a Sunday service at the Priesthood Fellowship Church in Kahawa West; while addressing the congregation in his native Kikuyu language, he encouraged the attendees to remain calm and emphasized the importance of voter registration referring to it as “our shield”, possibly alluding to the 2027 general elections.
The former deputy president who was impeached by the parliament, told his supporters that he would provide direction in the coming days after finalizing consultations with various stakeholders.
