Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has escalated political tensions with a series of explosive statements targeting William Ruto and Kimani Ichung’wah, accusing them of cowardice and using state machinery to suppress political opposition.
In strongly worded posts, Gachagua claimed that the use of police force—including teargas and live ammunition—would not stop what he described as a growing political movement ahead of the 2027 elections.
He praised residents of Kikuyu for what he termed bravery and resilience, asserting that they had resisted intimidation and were already making decisive political choices about the country’s future.
The remarks come in the wake of heightened tensions in Kikuyu constituency, where Gachagua alleged that organized groups had attempted to disrupt his planned meeting.
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In a detailed account, he claimed that early morning chaos saw roads blocked with stones, fires lit, and motorists attacked by individuals he described as “goons,” who allegedly operated unchecked for hours.
According to Gachagua, the situation only normalized after local residents intervened, accusing the police of arriving late and failing to prevent the violence.
He further alleged that such groups are being used systematically as a political tool, claiming that criminal elements are working alongside law enforcement to intimidate dissenting voices.
These claims, however, remain allegations and have not been independently verified by authorities at the time of reporting.
Cowards! pic.twitter.com/dcudI6VyWw
— Rigathi Gachagua (@rigathi) April 11, 2026
Gachagua also directly appealed to Douglas Kanja, urging him not to allow the police service to be used for political purposes.
He maintained that his meetings are peaceful and should be allowed to proceed without interference, citing previous gatherings in areas like Kabete as examples.
In a bold political declaration, Gachagua went further to predict that President Ruto would serve only one term, signaling a clear shift into early campaign rhetoric ahead of the next general election cycle.
His comments reflect a deepening rift within Kenya’s political landscape, with divisions becoming increasingly public and confrontational.
The accusations also touch on broader national concerns around security, governance, and the role of law enforcement in political activities—issues that have repeatedly surfaced in recent months.
Teargas fired in Kikuyu as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other opposition leaders arrive for a campaign rally. pic.twitter.com/5umbgKqPV3
— Linus Kaikai (@LinusKaikai) April 11, 2026
While supporters have rallied behind Gachagua’s stance, critics argue that such statements risk inflaming tensions and escalating political polarization.
As the situation continues to unfold, attention will likely turn to official responses from government agencies and political leaders named in the allegations.
For now, the developments in Kikuyu highlight a rapidly intensifying political climate, where public rallies, security claims, and sharp rhetoric are increasingly shaping the national conversation.
