Police ask Gachagua to seek enhanced security, denies claims of political bias

The National Police Service (NPS) has urged former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to liaise with officers at all levels should he require additional security measures following his claims that his life is in danger.

In a statement, NPS spokesman Muchiri Nyaga also told Gachagua to notify the police in advance of his movements and public engagements to facilitate proper planning and coordination of his security arrangements.

“In light of Gachagua’s security concerns, he is advised to liaise with police officers at all levels should he require additional security measures, and notify the police in advance of his movements and public engagements to facilitate proper planning and coordination of his security arrangements,” Nyaga said.

He said that in fulfilling its mandate, the NPS is obligated under Article 244(c) of the Constitution to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms, adding that it remains committed to serving all persons without political bias .

“Furthermore, the Service reaffirms its unwavering commitment to constitutional impartiality, serving all persons without political bias,” Nyaga added. .

He said the NPS remains apolitical and steadfast in proactively deploying intelligence-led measures to pre-empt and respond to security threats through multi-agency approaches, while strictly upholding the rule of law and human rights.

“NPS assures the public that the security situation nationwide remains stable, and proactive measures have been implemented to prevent criminal activities, and the police shall dutifully respond to all security needs where and when requested as provided for under the law,” Nyaga added.

In a letter to Inspector General Police Douglas Kanja, Gachagua cited various incidents in which he said his security and that of his wife was threatened and called for immediate action as he protested the withdrawal of his bodyguards.

Gachagua alleged that there have been multiple assassination attempts on him.

The former DP called for the arrest and prosecution of individuals he claims are known to the police.

He also demanded the immediate provision of security for himself, which he says was withdrawn following his impeachment last year.

Gachagua listed six incidents in which he and his supporters were allegedly attacked by ‘organized criminal gangs,’ the most recent happening early this month during a church service at PCEA Kasarani in the Mwiki, Nairobi.

“A battalion of furious gangsters wielding machetes and crude weapons stormed the church where I was worshipping and caused chaos of unthinkable magnitude,” Gachagua stated.

He cited several other incidents, most of which occurred during church services or prayer rallies, with some dating back to November of last year.

“You are well aware that security agencies have been trailing me using marked and unmarked vehicles, notably in December last year,” he said.

He urged the Inspector General of Police to end the surveillance.

Further, he accused the police of colluding with the perpetrators, exposing him to potential attacks.

“As you are aware, you have a constitutional duty and responsibility to protect the life and property of every Kenyan as enshrined in the Constitution. However, in this case, Kanja, you are perpetuating crime and violence,” He alluded.

Gachagua further warned that Kanja would be held accountable for any more acts of violence or assassination attempts against him.

“Take firm notice that might further violence and assassination attempts be meted on me whatsoever; you will be personally responsible to the people of the Republic of Kenya and to the entire world,” Gachagua warned.

This is not the first time the former Deputy President has made such claims. In October last year, he alleged that his life was in danger shortly after he was discharged from a Nairobi hospital where he had been admitted after he fell ill during debate of the motion for his impeachment in the Senate.