Nairobi, Kenya – May 16, 2025 — Kenya’s political arena has been jolted by explosive allegations from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who on Friday accused President William Ruto of orchestrating a series of violent attacks targeting him, his family, and his supporters.
In a strongly worded statement shared via his verified platforms, Gachagua claimed that the government is using state security forces and organized criminal gangs to suppress dissent and intimidate perceived political opponents.
“Stop sending goons to attack me, my family, and supporters. We have rights and freedoms to enjoy like other Kenyans,” Gachagua declared.
A Timeline of Alleged State-Backed Attacks
Gachagua detailed a string of incidents he described as part of a targeted campaign:
- November 2024: Goons under police escort allegedly disrupted a funeral in Limuru, where Gachagua was present.
- December 2024: Police officers reportedly lobbed tear gas during a prayer meeting in Nyandarua County, endangering worshippers.
- January 2025: His children were allegedly evicted from their office of five years by individuals protected by police.
- April 2025: He likened an attack inside PCEA Church to the 2007 Kiambaa Church tragedy, accusing the government of violating sacred spaces.
- May 2025: Members of his Democratic Conservative Party (DCP) were reportedly assaulted at the party’s headquarters.
“Like a gentleman, just accept that you lost the trust and support of the people and move on,” Gachagua urged President Ruto.
The former Deputy President, once a key ally of Ruto, has grown increasingly vocal in his criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration. His accusations signal a widening rift within the ruling coalition, especially in the politically significant Mount Kenya region.
“You sent the leader of an organized criminal gang whom you have engaged in the Mountain to support you. They attacked my wife and Christians during a prayer meeting in Nyeri, discrediting the altar of God in the process,” he said.
Gachagua Launches His Own Political Party
In a significant political development, Gachagua officially launched a new political outfit yesterday called the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). With this move, he formally assumed the role of party leader, signaling his readiness to challenge the current regime and mobilize grassroots support ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The launch of DCP marks a new chapter in Gachagua’s political journey and is widely seen as a strategic step to consolidate influence in the Mount Kenya region and beyond.
Allegations of Interference in Law Enforcement
Gachagua further alleged that police officers have been barred from taking legal action against those involved in these incidents:
“Police are complaining that you have stopped them from arresting and prosecuting the culprits in all these incidents,” he charged.
His fiery statement ended with a bold challenge to the President:
“Doesn’t it bother your conscience that you have resorted to using criminal gangs and goons to intimidate those who no longer support you?”
Political Implications and Reactions
Political analysts believe Gachagua’s statement could mark a major turning point in Kenya’s political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections. The former DP has now positioned the DCP as a formidable political force, potentially eroding Ruto’s influence in the region.
Civil society groups and legal experts have called for independent investigations into the allegations.
“We urge state institutions to demonstrate impartiality and protect the democratic rights of all citizens regardless of political affiliation,” said Wanjiku Mwaura, director of the Kenya Center for Democratic Rights.
As of the time of publishing, State House had not issued an official response.
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