Drama unfolded at Wairima ACK Church in Othaya on Sunday when police allegedly lobbed teargas canisters during a service attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, forcing him and clergy to flee through alternative routes for safety.
Several worshippers were reportedly affected by the teargas, with reports of injuries, a woman collapsing, and chaos as attendees scattered. Eyewitness accounts described running battles outside the church, disabled vehicles, and dismantled sound systems intended for subsequent events.
Gachagua, who was whisked away by his private security with help from locals, later confirmed his safety in a strongly worded statement posted on social media. He accused President William Ruto of orchestrating a “heinous act” and claimed a “killer squad backed by the local police” attempted to assassinate him inside the place of worship.
In his full statement, the former DP said:
“I thank God for His Mercy and Kindness. I thank the residents of Othaya for helping my private security to evacuate me to safety.
I am now safe having just arrived at my Wamunyoro residence.
I request thousands of my supporters waiting for me in Othaya Town and Kiawara to peacefully go home as our vehicles have been disabled and sound systems dismantled.
Please note that the killer squad backed by the local police are all over the two venues and we don’t know their intention after failing to assassinate me inside a church.
My gratitude to all leaders and the people of Kenya for coming out to condemn this heinous act by Mr. William Ruto.
God is in control and his power surpasses that of William Ruto.”
The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from opposition leaders, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who slammed the government for violating constitutional rights by attacking worshippers in a sacred space.
Police have yet to issue an official statement on the disruption. The event comes amid heightened political tensions between Gachagua and President Ruto following the former’s impeachment in 2024.
Supporters gathered in Othaya and nearby areas were urged to disperse peacefully as Gachagua confirmed his safe arrival home.
This latest confrontation adds to a series of disrupted public appearances by Gachagua in recent weeks, raising concerns over political intolerance in the Mt Kenya region.
