Gachagua confirms safety after violent incident at Othaya ACK Church

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has confirmed that he is safe at his Wamunyoro residence in Nyeri County following a chaotic incident that disrupted a church service he was attending in Othaya earlier today, sparking widespread concern over his security and whereabouts.

Uncertainty surrounded Gachagua’s safety for several hours after reports emerged that police officers and unidentified individuals fired teargas and live bullets during a service at Witima ACK Church, forcing congregants and political leaders to flee.

Dramatic scenes unfolded as worshippers scrambled for safety amid what witnesses described as a tense standoff.

In a statement posted on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Gachagua said he and his allies were trapped inside the church after teargas was lobbed into the sanctuary, terming the incident an “assassination attempt.” He claimed that his evacuation was only made possible by the intervention of local residents who assisted his private security team.

“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,” Gachagua said.

He further urged his supporters who had gathered in Othaya Town and Kiawara to disperse peacefully, noting that his convoy vehicles had been disabled and sound systems dismantled.

 Gachagua alleged that a “killer squad,” which he claimed was backed by local police, was still present in the area, raising fears over their intentions after the incident.

The confrontation triggered confusion and anxiety among his supporters, with crowds forming in Othaya and surrounding areas amid unverified claims that the former deputy president had gone missing.

Some of his vehicles were reportedly torched, further escalating tensions.

The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from leaders of the United Opposition, who accused the government of using excessive force and intimidation against political opponents.

Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka warned President William Ruto that he would be held personally responsible should any harm befall Gachagua.

“Should anything happen to the Second Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya, HE Rigathi Gachagua, Kenya will hold you wholly responsible,” Kalonzo said.

Kalonzo added that Gachagua, his team, other leaders, and civilians present at the church were unarmed when they were allegedly attacked with live bullets and teargas. He described the incident as a grave violation of the Constitution and the rule of law.

“A church is a sacred and protected space. The use of force against unarmed citizens in such circumstances is unlawful and indefensible,” Kalonzo said, adding that he held the Inspector General of Police and all responsible officers fully accountable for the safety of Gachagua and civilians.

Gachagua is expected to address the media later in the evening from his Wamunyoro residence.

The incident adds to a growing list of confrontations involving Gachagua over the past two years, during which police operations have disrupted several public gatherings he attended, including a funeral in Limuru in late 2024 and a church service in Murang’a in mid-2025, both of which reportedly ended with teargas and a heavy security presence.