The Inspector-General of the Kenyan Police has finally addressed claims and concerns raided by the former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua who alleged a scheme to unalive him after his security was withdrawn.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has raised the alarm over his personal safety, alleging a deliberate plot to eliminate him through the systematic withdrawal of his security.
In a strongly worded letter dated April 15, 2025, and addressed to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Gachagua claimed there have been multiple attempts on his life since his ouster from office in October 2024.
According to the former deputy president, his official protection has been pulled back as part of what he describes as a “well-orchestrated scheme” to expose him to harm.
He also accused senior police officials of colluding with criminal gangs to endanger him, further alleging that the National Intelligence Service (NIS) is surveilling him and his family in violation of their right to privacy.
“I am being trailed by NIS operatives in unmarked vehicles, and my homes in Nairobi, Nyeri, and elsewhere have come under threat from people known to the police,” Gachagua claimed in the letter.
In response, the National Police Service issued a statement through spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga, rejecting the allegations while reiterating the force’s commitment to neutrality, professionalism, and the protection of all Kenyans.
“The attention of the National Police Service has been drawn to a letter allegedly authored by Hon. Rigathi Gachagua. The Service wishes to reaffirm its role in promoting and safeguarding national security for all Kenyans, residents, and visitors,” the statement read.
The NPS encouraged Gachagua to liaise directly with police at various levels should he feel the need for additional security, including ahead of any public events or travel. Officials also maintained that the overall national security situation remains stable, with officers on high alert to prevent criminal activity.
However, Gachagua insists the threats are real—and growing. In his letter, he listed a series of incidents he believes were targeted attacks:
- November 2024: Gachagua says his convoy was attacked by hired goons during a funeral in Limuru. He labeled it a “failed assassination attempt.”
- December 2024: In Nyandarua, he alleges gangs, escorted by police, violently dispersed his supporters using teargas—even targeting mourners.
- January 2025: A prayer rally in Nyeri led by his wife, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, was disrupted. Gachagua claims those responsible were known to authorities. Footage from the event showed former Mungiki leader Maina Njenga arriving with groups of youths who reportedly caused chaos.
- March 23, March 29, and April 6: The former DP cited further incidents of intimidation and disruption during events he attended across the country.
Gachagua says these repeated acts of aggression have been met with silence from the authorities, despite numerous reports and appeals. He is now demanding immediate government intervention, including:
- Full reinstatement of his security detail,
- Protection of all his residences,
- An end to NIS surveillance on his family, and
- Arrests and prosecution of those behind the alleged attacks.
He also issued a stern warning to the Inspector General, urging him to respect his right to hold peaceful gatherings and warning against further interference.
