IG Kanja dismisses Gachagua’s security concerns, urges him to notify police of his movements

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has addressed concerns raised by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who claimed that his life is in danger due to what he described as deliberate withdrawal of his security detail.

In a letter dated April 15, 2025, and addressed to IG Kanja, Gachagua claimed that there have been countless attempts to take his life following his removal from office in October 2024.

He accused the IG of purposefully withdrawing his security "in a clear thought-out scheme and backward conspiracy to make me vulnerable to an organized criminal gang in collaboration with the police."

In response, IG Kanja – in a statement issued by National Police Service (NPS) Spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga - reaffirming the security apparatus’ commitment to impartial service, constitutional adherence, and the safety of all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations.

“The attention of the National Police Service has been drawn to a letter allegedly authored by Hon. Rigathi Gachagua. The Service wishes to reaffirm its role in promoting and safeguarding national security for all Kenyans, residents, and visitors,” the statement read in part.

The police urged the former Deputy President to engage directly with officers across various levels of the service should he require additional security measures.

Gachagua was further advised to communicate any public engagements or travel plans to the police in advance to enable proper planning.

“Hon. Gachagua is advised to liaise with police officers for any additional security arrangements,” Nyaga noted, emphasizing that the security situation across the country remains stable and that officers are on high alert to thwart criminal activities.

Gachagua, in his earlier letter, had also claimed that there have been attempts to attack his homes in Nairobi, Nyeri and other homes by individuals well known to the IG.

"NIS operatives trail and stalk me and me immediate family members in unmarked cars or clandestine number plates. This is an affront to right to privacy," he stated.

Backing his claims, Gachagua listed a chronological order of events where he was allegedly attacked by organized gangs and police officers.

He noted that at a funeral service in Limuru in November 2024, a team of goons attacked him and his convoy, further harming mourners, terming it a failed assassination attempt.

He also claimed that IG Kanja, in December 2024, was flanked by gangs to disperse his supporters in Nyandarua County, lobbing teargas canisters at mourners.