Former Kenyan Deputy President Claims Assassination Attempt During Church Attack

Rigathi Gachagua, a prominent Kenyan opposition figure, has recently alleged that there was an assassination attempt on his life during a chaotic incident at a church service. The incident occurred in Othaya, a town in Nyeri County, where he claims a group of rogue police officers launched an attack using bullets and tear gas.

Gachagua, who was removed from his position as deputy president after an impeachment trial in 2024, accused his former ally, President William Ruto, of orchestrating the attack. While Gachagua did not provide evidence for his allegations, he has raised serious concerns regarding political violence in Kenya amid escalating tensions between political factions.
President Ruto has yet to comment on these accusations, but the Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen condemned the violence, branding it as unacceptable and calling for justice.

Eyewitness reports indicated that a tear-gas canister was thrown inside St. Peters Anglican Church, disrupting the service at around 11:00 AM local time. Although several vehicles were reportedly damaged in the chaos, no injuries were reported according to the police, who have since launched an investigation into the incident.

Gachagua, a wealthy businessman often referred to as Riggy G, has been openly critical of the president and his administration after his impeachment. He asserted that he was escorted to safety by his security team during the attack and later shared images of the chaos on social media.

Interior Minister Murkomen assured that those responsible for the attack would be held accountable, stressing that violence, especially in places of worship, is intolerable. Gachagua's impeachment means he cannot hold public office, yet he claims intentions to appeal and potentially run for president in the upcoming elections.