Gachagua Alleges Six Assassination Attempts Following October Impeachment

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has levelled serious accusations against state security agencies, alleging negligence and complicity in what he describes as a coordinated effort to endanger his life. 

In a formal letter dated April 15, 2025, addressed to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Gachagua details a series of incidents he believes demonstrate a deliberate plot to harm him. These allegations surface amidst heightened political tensions following his impeachment in October 2024.
Gachagua's letter outlines a grim security situation, claiming that his security detail was intentionally withdrawn, leaving him vulnerable to attacks by organized criminal elements. 

He cites six specific incidents, with the most recent occurring on April 6 during a church service at PCEA Kasarani in Nairobi. According to Gachagua, armed individuals stormed the church, causing chaos and endangering worshippers, an event he terms "unthinkable." He accuses the police of failing to intervene during the incident. The letter also references earlier events, including an attack during a funeral service in Limuru in November 2024 and a disrupted meeting in Nyandarua in December 2024, where tear gas was allegedly used to disperse his supporters. 

Gachagua claims these incidents are part of a broader pattern of intimidation and surveillance, with marked and unmarked vehicles trailing him and his family. He has accused the National Intelligence Service (NIS) of orchestrating these actions, which he views as a violation of his constitutional rights. In his communication, Gachagua directly accuses Inspector General Kanja of perpetuating crime and violence, warning that Kanja would be held accountable for any further harm that befalls him or his supporters. 

He emphasizes the constitutional duty of security agencies to protect all citizens, a responsibility he claims has been neglected in his case. This is not the first time Gachagua has made such claims. In October 2024, shortly after his impeachment, he alleged that his food had been poisoned during a visit to Kisumu. He also reported an assassination attempt in Nyeri while meeting with the Kikuyu Council of Elders. These allegations have sparked widespread debate, with some questioning their validity while others view them as indicative of deeper political unrest.

The timing of these accusations is particularly significant, as Gachagua has also been vocal about opposition plans for the 2027 presidential elections. Speaking in Machakos County on April 15, he revealed that opposition parties intend to announce their candidate in December 2026. He expressed concerns that premature disclosure could lead to government efforts to sow division within the opposition ranks. Gachagua stresses the importance of unity, stating that opposition leaders must prioritize the nation's interests over personal ambitions.

Key figures in the opposition, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, and DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, are reportedly involved in discussions to form a united front against President William Ruto. Wamalwa has hinted at the possibility of fielding a single candidate to maximize their chances in the elections. He also calls for intergenerational collaboration, urging younger voters to work alongside seasoned politicians to address the country's challenges.