In a dramatic turn of events, a Thanksgiving prayer service attended by impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in Shamata, Nyandarua County, descended into chaos on December 28, 2024, after a teargas canister was thrown into the VIP tent. The incident has sparked heated debates, with conflicting narratives emerging about the true cause of the disruption.
Peaceful Event Turns Chaotic
The Thanksgiving event, organized by Gachagua’s supporters, was intended to be a solemn occasion for prayers and reflection. Hundreds of attendees, including political leaders, local clergy, and residents, had gathered peacefully in Shamata when chaos erupted.
According to Gachagua, a uniformed police inspector handed a teargas canister to an officer in plain clothes, who then hurled it into the VIP tent without provocation. “Despite the fact that the prayers were peaceful and everyone was calm, an officer deliberately caused panic and commotion by throwing a teargas canister,” Gachagua said in his statement.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as attendees, including women and children, scrambled for safety amid clouds of teargas. “It was terrifying. People were coughing, and children were crying. We couldn’t understand why the police would do this,” said one attendee, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal.
Conflicting Reports Emerge
While Gachagua has blamed rogue police officers for the chaos, other reports suggest a different narrative. Police sources indicate that investigations are underway into claims that a man, allegedly acting on Gachagua’s instructions, might have been responsible for the incident.
“We have received information suggesting that an individual, claiming to act under orders from Mr. Gachagua, threw the teargas canister in an attempt to create sympathy and paint the government in a negative light,” said a senior police official who spoke on condition of anonymity.
This claim has been vehemently denied by Gachagua and his allies, who view it as part of a broader political smear campaign.
Political Undercurrents and Rising Tensions
This incident comes on the heels of another violent disruption at a funeral service in Limuru, which Gachagua also attended. In that instance, mourners were reportedly attacked by goons allegedly enjoying police protection.
“Despite clear photographic evidence showing the perpetrators, no arrests have been made to date,” Gachagua lamented. “It is shameful how low the National Police Service has stooped, becoming tools for political intimidation instead of serving the people.”
Political analysts argue that these recurring disruptions reflect the deepening political fault lines in Kenya. “These events are not isolated. They are part of a larger political chess game being played out ahead of the 2027 elections,” said political analyst Dr. Peter Karanja.
President Ruto Under Fire
In his statement, Gachagua did not mince words while addressing President William Ruto directly. “No amount of intimidation or violence will stop the Kenyan people from criticizing you, demanding good governance, or holding you accountable,” Gachagua said.
This bold statement signals escalating tensions between the impeached Deputy President and the current administration, which political observers say could further polarize the nation.
The Role of the Police in Political Tensions
The National Police Service has faced increased scrutiny over its perceived involvement in politically motivated operations. Civil rights groups have raised concerns about the growing trend of extrajudicial killings, abductions, and the use of force to suppress dissent.
“These incidents undermine public trust in law enforcement. The police must act impartially and avoid being drawn into political disputes,” said Amnesty International Kenya Director, Irene Mueni.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has since announced an investigation into the Shamata teargas incident, vowing to hold those responsible accountable.
The Human Toll of Political Chaos
Amid the political blame game, it is ordinary citizens who bear the brunt of such incidents. Mothers were seen clutching their children as they fled the VIP tent, and elderly attendees struggled to escape the choking effects of the gas.
“I had brought my elderly mother to the prayer service, hoping for a peaceful day. Instead, we were caught in chaos. This is unacceptable,” said a frustrated resident.
Community Resilience Shines Through
Despite the chaos, Gachagua took a moment to praise the resilience of the Shamata community. “I want to thank the residents of Shamata for taking charge of the meeting and escorting the attackers out, while ensuring the safety of women and children,” he said.
Residents, determined to complete the prayers, regrouped after the teargas dissipated and continued with the event under heavy security.
“We refused to let chaos win. We came here for prayers, and we finished our prayers,” said Reverend James Wanjiru, one of the clergy members leading the event.
Calls for Calm and Accountability
Various leaders have called for calm and an impartial investigation into the incident. Nyandarua County Senator Grace Mwangi urged both political factions to de-escalate tensions.
“We cannot keep dragging ordinary Kenyans into political battles. Investigations must be swift and transparent,” she said.
Human rights organizations are also calling for accountability. “Those responsible for this disruption, whether police officers or individuals with political motives, must be held accountable,” said Kenya Human Rights Commission spokesperson, David Otieno.
The Bigger Picture
This incident reflects a growing trend of political intolerance in Kenya, where public gatherings are increasingly marred by violence and disruptions. Experts warn that unless political leaders prioritize dialogue and peaceful engagement, such incidents could escalate into larger conflicts.
“We are seeing a dangerous normalization of violence in political spaces. It’s a ticking time bomb if not addressed urgently,” said Professor Wanjiku Ndegwa, a political scientist.
Looking Ahead
As investigations continue, Kenyans are watching closely to see whether justice will be served. The spotlight remains on both the police and political leaders to ensure transparency and accountability.
For now, the Shamata incident serves as yet another stark reminder of the fragility of Kenya’s political landscape and the urgent need for reforms within the security sector.
“This is not about politics; it’s about the safety and dignity of Kenyans,” said a local resident, summing up the collective frustration of many attendees.
As the nation reflects on this incident, one thing remains clear: the people of Kenya deserve better.
