Restore Gachagua's security and allow him to speak freely: MP Njeri Maina tells gov't

Speaking on Wednesday, MP Njeri Maina said the government should restore security for the former deputy president.

"When President Ruto visited Kirinyaga County, there was no violence. No goons were present. The same should apply to the Rigathi Gachagua," said Njeri Maina.

"Let no one plan against him when he goes to address the public. Rigathi Gachagua must be allowed to speak, and he deserves maximum security as a senior Kenyan leader."

She condemned recent incidents of political tension, expressing disappointment over reports that Gachagua had been targeted during a church service.

"It is very disappointing that Deputy President Gachagua would be attacked during a church service. He must be allowed by the state to move around the country freely," she said.

On Tuesday Gachagua claimed his life was in danger, accusing Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja of  purposefully withdrawing his security "in a clear thought-out scheme and backward conspiracy to make me vulnerable to an organized criminal ganga in collaboration with the police."

Maina was speaking during the launch of the Tupange Kesho 2025 programme under which more than Ksh.36 million has been allocated to education, skills development, water access, and economic empowerment initiatives

A total of Ksh.9.65 million has been disbursed in bursaries over two academic years, supporting hundreds of students with school fees. An additional Ksh.721,000 has gone towards scholarships for high-performing students from vulnerable backgrounds.

To improve water access in schools, 20 institutions have received 5,000-litre water tanks at a cost of KShs 1.08 million. The initiative seeks to address hygiene and nutrition challenges, particularly in drought-affected areas.

In a related effort, 578 students have received dignity kits worth Ksh.3.05 million, aimed at supporting adolescent health and boosting school attendance.

The funds have also been channelled towards TVET sponsorships, Women’s economic empowerment and civic education.

According to Maina’s office, the funds are part of a broader commitment to grassroots development and improving livelihoods across Kirinyaga County.