Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua during a presser in Karen, Nairobi on May 19, 2025/SCREENGRABFormer Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has launched a scathing attack on Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, accusing him of insincerity over recent remarks vowing to crack down on political violence in Kenya.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday amid speculation of his impending arrest, Gachagua claimed he has been the target of orchestrated violence since November 2024—allegedly with state complicity.
He said despite suffering attacks of “great magnitude” alongside his family and supporters, the government has failed to take any action against perpetrators.
“I urge them to walk the talk,” Gachagua said, referencing Murkomen's pledge to uphold peace and law and order.
Gachagua detailed multiple incidents, including an attack at a funeral in Limuru, Kiambu County, on November 28, 2024.
He also said police fired tear gas at him during a December 28 rally in Nyandarua and again on March 23, 2025, when his convoy was reportedly assaulted at a church compound in Nyeri.
He dismissed Murkomen’s earlier assertion that chaos witnessed at the recent Democratic Change Party (DCP) unveiling event was the result of internal wrangles over handouts.
“We dismiss with contempt the loose talk by the CS that goons who dared to cause chaos were fighting over handouts from us,” Gachagua stated.
“These were state-sponsored attacks. Fortunately, our supporters and security personnel managed to contain the situation.”
Gachagua insisted the DCP enjoys broad-based support and does not rely on mobilizing crowds through payments.
He accused elements within the state of weaponizing the criminal justice system to stifle dissent and warned that intimidation would not deter his political movement.
“To the planners of violence, let me assure you—you will not stop the cause of the people of Kenya,” he said.
“This movement is not about me. It’s about liberating Kenya.”
The embattled politician called on his supporters to remain vigilant and assert their rights, signaling a readiness to defy what he sees as political persecution.
“My supporters and I will not be cowed or intimidated by the misuse of the criminal justice system to manage politics,” he concluded.
