A funeral in Limuru attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua descended into chaos on Tuesday after suspected goons disrupted the event, sending mourners fleeing in panic. Videos shared on social media captured the pandemonium, which unfolded as Gachagua and other leaders were seated in the VIP section.
The footage shows a group of intruders emerging from behind a tent where Gachagua was seated. As the speaker addressed the crowd, the microphone abruptly went mute, followed by commotion. Moments later, the attacking group began hurling plastic chairs at the mourners, causing widespread panic.
Mourners Flee as Violence Erupts
The unexpected attack forced attendees to scatter in all directions. Gachagua was swiftly escorted to safety by his security team as the intruders escalated their aggression, vandalizing vehicles parked at the venue. Images shared online revealed damaged cars, while reports indicated that no serious injuries were immediately confirmed.
Senator Alleges Assassination Plot
Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa, who was seated next to Gachagua, took to social media to allege that the disruption was part of an assassination attempt. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, Thang’wa wrote:
“It was an assassination attempt. But the People’s Deputy President is safe. Asanteni sana, watu wa Limuru, for ensuring our safety. We will not be intimidated or silenced—now we know.”
These claims follow repeated assertions by Gachagua that his life has been under threat.
Previous Allegations of Intimidation
The former DP has made similar allegations in the past, accusing unknown individuals of trailing him in unmarked vehicles and monitoring his movements. On November 20, he took to X to express concerns over what he described as harassment by state agents, writing:
“They are parking at the entrance of my Nairobi residence, taking note of all my visitors, and they trail me whenever I leave the house, even to my rural home in Nyeri.”
Gachagua also alleged that the surveillance was part of a broader campaign of intimidation by state operatives.
“In this era of extrajudicial killings, forced abductions, and disappearances, I have thought it important to share with Kenyans the harassment and intimidation I am going through and inform them to hold the state responsible if I am harmed by state agents,” he added.
DCI Refutes Claims
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) dismissed Gachagua’s allegations as baseless. In a statement responding to reports that unmarked Subaru cars had attempted to block him from attending a church service in Nairobi, the DCI clarified:
“We want to clarify that these allegations are entirely false and seem to be aimed at misrepresenting the actions and intentions of the DCI. The DCI operates within the parameters established by the rule of law and has consistently affirmed its commitment to refraining from interference in the liberties of individuals and institutions.”
This marks the second instance in recent months where Gachagua has publicly voiced concerns about his personal safety.
Rising Political Tensions
The chaos at the funeral underscores escalating tensions in Kenya’s political arena. As a high-profile figure, Gachagua remains a focal point in the country’s shifting political landscape. The incident has also reignited debates about security for prominent leaders and the role of political rivalries in fostering hostility at public events.
As investigations into the Limuru funeral chaos continue, Kenyans remain divided over the veracity of Gachagua’s claims of intimidation and threats to his life. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragile nature of political discourse in the country and the potential for violence to disrupt moments of solemnity.
The nation awaits further updates as authorities probe the disruptions and seek to identify the culprits behind the attack.
