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Former Kenyan deputy president Rigathi Gachagua has claimed his life was in danger following an attack during a Sunday church service.
Gachagua, a leading opposition figure who was removed from office through an impeachment process in 2024, said the incident occurred at a church in Othaya, Nyeri County.
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He alleged that a group of rogue police officers stormed the service, firing bullets and using tear gas.
Although he did not present evidence, Gachagua accused President William Ruto — his former political ally — of being behind the attack. The president has not responded to the claims. However, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen condemned the incident, terming the violence unacceptable.
Police confirmed that investigations are underway and stated that no injuries were reported. According to police accounts, a tear-gas canister was hurled into St Peter’s Anglican Church at around 11:00am local time, forcing the service to stop. Several vehicles within the church compound were also damaged, and police have appealed for witnesses to come forward.
Gachagua said his security detail swiftly escorted him to safety. He later shared images of the scene on social media and addressed journalists, dismissing claims by pro-government bloggers that the incident had been staged.
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Questioning such allegations, Gachagua asked how civilians could access tear gas or AK-47 rifles. He is the leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party.
Murkomen said the Inspector General of Police had assured him that those responsible would be arrested and prosecuted. He emphasized that violence — especially in places of worship — would not be tolerated and urged police to act impartially regardless of political standing.
Under Kenya’s constitution, Gachagua’s impeachment by the Senate bars him from holding public office. He was convicted on five of 11 charges, including inciting ethnic hatred and breaching his oath of office.
Despite this, the politician — popularly known as Riggy G — insists he will contest the presidency next year, arguing that his appeal is still before the courts and the Supreme Court has yet to make a final ruling.
President Ruto and Gachagua were elected together in 2022, a partnership that proved crucial in securing support from the Mount Kenya region, Kenya’s largest voting bloc dominated by the Kikuyu community.
