Ex-DP Rigathi Gachagua Accuses Police of Plotting His Murder – NPS Responds.
Nairobi, Kenya – April 15, 2025 – A bombshell letter from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has exposed a bitter feud with Kenya’s security agencies, alleging assassination plots, police complicity, and state-sponsored harassment. Hours later, the National Police Service (NPS) issued a terse response, denying bias but failing to directly address the explosive claims.
The escalating standoff raises fears of renewed political instability, with Gachagua warning of “unspeakable violence” if anything happens to him. Here’s the full breakdown of the high-stakes drama gripping the nation.
Gachagua’s Explosive Allegations: A Timeline of Attacks
In a scathing 11-point letter addressed to Inspector General Douglas Kanja, Gachagua—who was controversially impeached in 2024—detailed multiple alleged assassination attempts and security failures. Key incidents include:
- Limuru Funeral Attack (Nov 28, 2024) – Thugs attacked mourners, destroyed vehicles, and beat women while police allegedly watched.
- Shamata Assassination Attempt (Dec 28, 2024) – A police inspector reportedly hurled tear gas to clear the way for armed gangs.
- Kamukunji Prayer Rally Chaos (Jan 18, 2025) – Gangsters disrupted a church event where Gachagua’s wife was preaching, with plainclothes officers allegedly aiding them.
- ACK Cathedral Attack (March 23, 2025) – Worshipers were assaulted as police “idly watched.”
- Naivasha Brutality (March 29, 2025) – Officers under OCPD Keter allegedly beat unarmed residents greeting Gachagua.
- PCEA Kasarani Church Invasion (April 6, 2025) – Machete-wielding thugs stormed a service, with no police response despite a nearby station.
Gachagua further accused the NIS of “stalking” him with unmarked cars, including a vehicle (KCR 919U) that tailed him for 150 km in Makueni.
“You Are Personally Responsible” – Gachagua’s Ultimatum
The ex-DP didn’t mince words, warning IG Kanja:
“Should anything happen to me or my family, Kenya will descend into violence you can only imagine… You will answer to the people and the world.”
He drew parallels to 2007’s post-election chaos, hinting that security chiefs could face ICC-style prosecutions if the crisis escalates. His demands include:
- Immediate reinstatement of his security detail.
- Arrest of attackers and rogue officers.
- An end to NIS surveillance.
- Protection for his homes in Nairobi and Nyeri.
NPS Fires Back – But Avoids Key Allegations
Hours later, the NPS issued a carefully worded statement, refusing to engage with Gachagua’s claims directly. Instead, it:
✔ Reaffirmed its commitment to protecting all Kenyans.
✔ Urged Gachagua to “liaise with police” for security coordination.
✔ Denied political bias, citing Article 244 of the Constitution.
✔ Assured the public of nationwide stability.
Critics, however, noted the glaring omission—no mention of investigating the alleged attacks or addressing NIS’s alleged involvement.
Why This Feud Matters: Political Repercussions
- 2027 Elections Shadow – Gachagua remains a key figure in Kenya’s opposition, and his claims fuel suspicions of state persecution against Ruto’s rivals.
- Security Sector Credibility – If police are seen as partisan, public trust could collapse, worsening Kenya’s fragile security environment.
- International Scrutiny – References to the ICC and human rights violations may attract global attention.
What Happens Next?
- Legal Action? Gachagua could sue for rights violations or petition international bodies.
- Protests? His supporters may stage demonstrations if attacks continue.
- IG Kanja’s Move – Will he order an independent probe, or will the state dismiss the claims as political theatrics?
Final Verdict: A Ticking Time Bomb?
With Gachagua vowing resistance and the NPS sidestepping accountability, Kenya faces a dangerous stalemate. If security forces don’t act transparently, the country risks repeating its darkest chapters—where political grudges spill into bloodshed.
