'You can’t investigate yourself!' Gachagua slams CS Murkomen over church chaos

Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua has lashed out at Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen following chaotic scenes during a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County, where he was teargassed and one of his vehicles torched.

Speaking after the incident, Gachagua accused the police of orchestrating the violence and questioned how investigations could be conducted by the same authorities he claims were involved.

In a statement posted on X, Murkomen, in his response to the melee, condemned the violence saying investigations were already underway, noting that he had spoken to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, who assured him that those responsible would be brought to justice.

"The police must move without fear or favour and deal decisively with the sponsors and perpetrators of this act without regard to their status in society or political affiliation. As a Government, we remain firmly committed to upholding the tenets of democracy, including the right to lawful assembly and freedom of worship," he wrote.

Gachagua rubbished Murkomen's assurance, further dismissing claims that the incident was stage-managed for political mileage, accusing government-aligned bloggers of spreading misinformation.

“I have seen government bloggers spreading nonsense. Where can we get teargas or AK-47s? Are they sold in supermarkets? Please, Murkomen, do not play with the minds of Kenyans. Do not make this country ungovernable," he stated.

The incident unfolded at Wairima ACK Church, where worship was disrupted after clouds of teargas engulfed the sanctuary, forcing congregants to flee for safety.

Several people were injured during the melee as sporadic gunfire rang out.

One of Gachagua’s vehicles was set ablaze, while several others belonging to opposition leaders were vandalised. His bodyguards evacuated him through a fence at the back of the church before whisking him away through nearby thickets.

Later, at his Wamunyoro home in Mathira, Gachagua claimed the attack was carried out by security officers.

“More than 15 officers under the command of the Murang’a woman representative’s bodyguards attacked us," he alleged.

Meanwhile, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka also condemned the attack and called for immediate and in-depth investigations.

Despite the incident, Gachagua insisted he remains undeterred, saying he will continue with what he described as a mission to liberate the country.