Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has raised alarm over what he claims are repeated attempts on his life, urging Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome and President William Ruto to intervene. In a detailed letter, Gachagua outlined multiple incidents of alleged harassment, intimidation, and violence targeting him and his family since late 2024.
Gachagua cited an attack during a funeral in Limuru on November 28, 2024, which he termed a “failed assassination attempt.” Despite reported damages, no arrests were made. Weeks later, on December 19, he claimed an unmarked vehicle trailed him for over 150km in Makueni County. His family, he added, has also been followed by suspicious individuals in unmarked cars.
On December 28, a meeting in Shamata, Nyandarua, was allegedly disrupted by a criminal gang, with a tear gas canister thrown at him to “create grounds for assassination.” His wife, Dorcas Rigathi, was reportedly attacked at a Kamukunji prayer rally in Nyeri on January 18, 2025, forcing her to flee with private security. Gachagua skipped the event after an intelligence warning.
Further incidents include an attack at ACK St. Peter’s Cathedral in Nyeri (March 23), where police allegedly stood by as chaos erupted, and a violent confrontation in Naivasha (March 29) where his supporters were roughed up. Most recently, on April 6, a church event at PCEA Kasarani East Parish was disrupted by armed individuals, with no police response
Gachagua’s allegations come amid rising political tensions, with his allies suggesting state-backed persecution. His warning that any harm to him would be “credited to Kanja” (a reference to Interior CS Kithure Kindiki) hints at deep-seated mistrust within government circles.
The former DP has demanded urgent security intervention, questioning why perpetrators remain unpunished. Observers warn that such claims, if ignored, could escalate political instability. As pressure mounts, Kenyans await official responses from the police and presidency.
For now, Gachagua’s safety concerns highlight the volatile nature of Kenya’s political landscape, where power struggles often spill into public confrontations. The state’s next move could either calm tensions or deepen the crisis.
