Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has written a scathing letter to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, accusing the National Police Service of orchestrating assassination attempts against him and his family. The explosive letter details multiple violent incidents, police complicity, and a deliberate withdrawal of his security—raising fears of a state-sponsored plot.
Gachagua’s Explosive Letter: Key Allegations
In a strongly worded letter dated 15th April 2025, the former Mathira MP and ousted Deputy President accused the police and National Intelligence Service (NIS) of actively endangering his life. The letter, copied to President William Ruto, Interior CS, and international bodies, outlines a series of violent attacks, police inaction, and targeted harassment.
1. Withdrawal of Security & Police Complicity
Gachagua claims his security detail was deliberately withdrawn as part of a scheme to expose him to attacks. He alleges that police officers have stood by or actively participated in violent incidents targeting him.
2. Six Major Assassination Attempts
The letter lists six specific incidents where Gachagua and his supporters faced violence:
- 28th November 2024 (Limuru, Kiambu): Criminal gangs attacked his convoy during a funeral, destroying vehicles and assaulting mourners while police watched.
- 28th December 2024 (Shamata, Nyandarua): A police inspector allegedly threw teargas at him to create chaos for an assassination attempt.
- 18th January 2025 (Nyeri): Armed gangs disrupted a church service led by his wife, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, with police in plainclothes joining the attackers.
- 23rd March 2025 (ACK St. Peters’ Cathedral, Nyeri): Churchgoers were attacked while Gachagua attended service, with police failing to intervene.
- 29th March 2025 (Naivasha): Police officers under OCPD Keter allegedly beat up civilians greeting Gachagua and teargassed his motorcade.
- 6th April 2025 (PCEA Kasarani, Nairobi): Armed gangsters stormed a church service, causing chaos while police ignored distress calls.
3. Surveillance & Stalking by NIS
Gachagua accuses the National Intelligence Service (NIS) of trailing him and his family in unmarked vehicles, suggesting coordination with attackers. He cites an incident where an NIS officer with a fake number plate (KCR 919U) followed him for 150 km in Makueni.
“You Will Be Held Responsible” – Gachagua’s Warning
The letter takes a legal and political tone, warning IG Kanja of personal accountability if anything happens to him. Key demands include:
- Immediate arrest of attackers.
- Restoration of his security detail.
- End to police interference in his public gatherings.
- Stop NIS surveillance on his family.
- Protection of his homes and properties.
Gachagua invokes Kenya’s 2007 post-election violence, warning that failure to act could plunge Kenya into chaos. He also references the International Criminal Court (ICC), hinting at potential crimes against humanity charges.
Political Implications: Is Ruto’s Government Involved?
The letter raises serious questions about state involvement in the alleged attacks. Key concerns:
- Why was Gachagua’s security withdrawn?
- Why have police failed to act against attackers?
- Is there a political motive behind the threats?
Gachagua was impeached in 2024 under controversial circumstances, and his fallout with President Ruto has been widely reported. His latest claims suggest deep political vendetta, with security agencies allegedly weaponized against him.
International Attention: Diplomatic Corps & Human Rights Bodies Notified
Copies of the letter were sent to:
- Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC)
- International Commission of Jurists (ICJ)
- Diplomatic missions in Kenya
This suggests Gachagua is seeking international pressure on the Kenyan government to address his security concerns.
Public Reaction: Will This Spark Unrest?
Kenyans on social media are divided:
- Supporters believe Gachagua is being targeted for opposing the government.
- Critics argue he is playing victim for political sympathy.
Given Kenya’s history of politically linked violence, his warnings of potential unrest cannot be ignored.
Conclusion: A Ticking Time Bomb?
Gachagua’s letter exposes a high-stakes political and security crisis. If his allegations are true, Kenya could be on the brink of serious instability. The ball is now in the hands of IG Kanja, President Ruto, and international observers—will they act before it’s too late?
