Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has ordered an investigation into the chaotic incident where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was teargassed during a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County.
The disruption occurred on Sunday at Witima ACK Church (with some reports mentioning related events), where suspected plain-clothes officers allegedly lobbed teargas canisters into the congregation.
This caused panic among worshippers, including children, as people choked and fled for safety. Reports indicate Gachagua’s entourage faced additional violence: one of his vehicles was torched, and others vandalized.
Gachagua, now a prominent opposition figure after his 2024 impeachment, described the episode as a targeted attack, even alleging an assassination attempt involving rogue police elements and accusing President William Ruto of involvement, though without presented evidence.
In response, Murkomen directed Central Regional Commissioner Joshua Kanatha (and consulted Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja) to probe the matter urgently and impartially.
He condemned violence in places of worship as unacceptable, stating any implicated leaders would face accountability. Police confirmed an investigation is underway, with no reported injuries.
The opposition, including the United Opposition coalition, accused the government of deploying state machinery to intimidate critics. Questions linger over the probe’s credibility amid claims the attack was police-orchestrated.
The incident highlights escalating political tensions in Kenya ahead of future elections.
Author: Bashirjuma
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