ACK Church condemns Witima attack, demand apology from state over mayhem

The ‎Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) has demanded an apology from security agencies and political leaders who may have participated in last Sunday’s mayhem.

Mt Kenya West Diocese Bishop Gerald Muriithi said the Kenya Police Service and the State owe the Church an apology as police officers attacked the worshippers by throwing teargas and shooting live bullets during the function attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Scores of worshippers were injured when goons apparently in the accompany of police officers attacked the ACK Witima Church in Nyeri County where the DCP party leader was in attendance, accompanied by his allies.

‎‎Speaking at the Witima ACK Church in Othaya on Monday, January 26, 2026, Bishop Muriithi said: “We are demanding an apology from all relevant security apparatus and any political leader who could have been involved in this criminal and shameful act.”

‎‎He has also called for speedy and independent investigations into the violent disruption of the church service and prosecution of those who participated in the attack.

‎‎”We demand that the Inspector General of Police conducts a speedy and thorough investigation and ensure the prosecution of all those found culpable,” he said.

‎‎Bishop Muriithi described the incident as the darkest day in the history of the congregation, saying worshippers had gathered for a peaceful service before violence broke out.

‎”Yesterday became the darkest day in the history of our church. Christians and the clergy had gathered for worship, looking forward to an edifying service but they ended up running for their dear lives,” Bishop Muriithi lamented.

‎He maintained that goons and police officers stormed the church compound as the service was underway, throwing tear gas and firing live ammunition directly at worshippers.

‎‎”As the service continued, goons and police officers attacked the church, throwing tear gas and firing live ammunition directly at worshippers,” he said.

‎The attack caused fear and panic, forcing congregants and politicians including Gachagua, to flee for safety.

‎‎”It is unfortunate and sad that children were traumatised, elderly parents were harassed and our clergy terrified and intimidated in the house of God,” Bishop Muriithi regretted.

‎‎He accused police officers of reckless conduct and alleged collaboration between security officers and criminal gangs, a thing that he said doesn’t augar well for the country.

‎‎”It is evident that the goons who were throwing stones and carrying crude weapons were collaborating with the police in this attack,” he said.

‎‎The bishop further questioned the use of police resources, claiming that two police vehicles, were used to escort goons to the church.

‎‎Reaffirming the church’s position, Bishop Muriithi said all people are welcome in places of worship regardless of political affiliation, race or social status, strictly for worship and not for political activities.

‎‎”All people are welcome in our churches just for worship purposes and not for political reasons,” stated the clergyman.

‎Citing the Constitution and the Penal Code, Rev Muriithi that disrupting a church service is a criminal offence under Kenyan law.

‎‎He warned that failure by the government to act decisively on the incident would set a dangerous precedent.

‎‎”Political differences must never be settled in the house of God. Churches must be respected, protected and kept free from violence,” he said.