Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has ordered a police probe into the attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at ACK Witima Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, where teargas was lobbed inside during Sunday service. Gachagua was evacuated by supporters to his Wamunyoro home and alleged it was a state-sponsored assassination attempt. Several leaders have condemned the incident as a violation of democratic rights and freedom of worship.
On Sunday, January 25, 2026, chaos erupted during a church service at ACK Witima Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was attending. Reports indicate that teargas canisters were thrown inside the church around 11 a.m., causing worshippers to flee as smoke filled the building. Children and women were among those affected, and several vehicles outside were damaged by stones from goons.
Gachagua alleged that police and a state-sponsored squad were sent to kill him, stating, “William Ruto has sent a killer squad to kill us inside Wairima ACK Church, Othaya. We are marooned in church, being attacked with live bullets and teargas, and my vehicles have been torched.” He was evacuated by supporters through a church fence and reached his Wamunyoro home safely, where he urged followers to go home peacefully as his planned events in Othaya and Kiawara were cancelled.
Interior Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen expressed shock and ordered police to investigate without fear or favor, adding, “Violence anywhere, and least of all in a place of worship, is unacceptable.” Inspector General Douglas Kanja assured that probes had begun, and the National Police Service condemned the incident, noting no injuries were reported. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka denounced it as a violation of law and constitution, warning Ruto to take responsibility. Former Speaker Justin Muturi and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki also condemned it, calling for an impartial investigation.
Nyeri Police Commander Kipchirchir Too said no officers were initially present but dispatched eight to probe. The Othaya incident echoes prior confrontations, such as those in Kirinyaga and Kariobangi in January 2026 and November 2025.
