Pastor Dorcas, wife of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, was forced to abandon a prayer meeting in Nyeri after politician Maina Njenga stormed the venue. The incident occurred at Kamkunji Stadium in Nyeri, where Dorcas had been attending a gathering with other political figures, including Nyeri Deputy Governor David Waroe. As Njenga’s convoy arrived at the venue, Dorcas and several other leaders were hurriedly escorted out through the back entry.
The chaos intensified as Njenga took the seat that had been occupied by Dorcas moments before, a symbolic act that sparked further tension. Gachagua later condemned the incident, accusing the government of orchestrating it as a desperate measure. He termed it a sign of political desperation, highlighting the growing tension in the region and the increasing challenges faced by opposition figures.
Maina Njenga, during his brief address, urged the residents of Mt. Kenya not to focus solely on their region. “Let us not be people who speak about Mt Kenya all the time. There are other parts of the country. We need to go to other areas for prayers,” he said, encouraging unity beyond regional divides. This statement, however, did little to ease the tension in the air as the political undercurrents were palpable.
This incident follows a troubling pattern of disruptions involving Gachagua and his associates. Barely two months ago, Gachagua was forced to flee a burial service in Limuru, Kiambu County, after goons allegedly sent by the State disrupted the event. Gachagua claimed that the government was behind the attacks, which led to the withdrawal of his security detail. During the funeral, he was targeted by a group of assailants who hurled stones and iron bars at his vehicle, further escalating the tensions between the opposition and the government.
Another chaotic scene unfolded in December 2024 at a thanksgiving function in Nyandarua, where a tear gas canister was thrown near the podium while Nyandarua Senator John Methu was addressing the gathering. The gas caused panic, prompting attendees to flee for safety. These incidents raise serious concerns about the security and safety of political figures in Kenya, as well as the role of government agents in the ongoing political unrest.
The frequent disruptions are now casting a shadow over the political landscape, with opposition figures facing increased hostility and intimidation. The situation has led to growing concerns about the state of democracy and political tolerance in Kenya, as leaders navigate an increasingly volatile environment.
