Nyeri County, Kenya – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has strongly condemned the violent disruption of a Sunday morning service at Witima ACK Church in Othaya, which was attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The service descended into chaos after individuals believed to be police officers in plain clothes lobbed teargas and fired gunshots inside the church compound, sparking outrage across the political divide.
Murkomen: “Violence in Places of Worship is Unacceptable”
In a statement issued Sunday evening, Murkomen described the incident as a direct assault on democratic values and the sanctity of worship.
“Violence anywhere, and least of all in a place of worship, is unacceptable,” said the Interior CS.
He revealed that he had already held discussions with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to ensure a comprehensive investigation is launched immediately.
“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,” Murkomen added.
The CS further called for calm in Nyeri, assuring residents that law enforcement agencies would address the matter with urgency.
“As a Government, we remain firmly committed to upholding the tenets of democracy, including the right to lawful assembly and freedom of worship.”
Gachagua Blames President Ruto
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, however, pointed fingers at his former boss, President William Ruto, alleging an assassination attempt.
“William Ruto has sent a killer squad to kill us inside Wairima ACK church, Othaya. We are marooned in church, being attacked with live bullets and tear gas and torched my vehicles,” Gachagua tweeted shortly after the attack.
Kalonzo Musyoka Joins Condemnation
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka also condemned the incident, accusing President Ruto of supporting unrest and misuse of public institutions for political battles.
He questioned how individuals in plain clothes accessed teargas canisters, which are typically restricted to the Kenya Police Service.
“I plead with fellow Kenyans to reject the capture of the church, attacks on holy places and throwing of teargas,” Kalonzo said.
Conclusion
The Witima ACK Church incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with leaders across the political spectrum calling for accountability and respect for places of worship. As investigations proceed, the government faces mounting pressure to ensure justice and safeguard democratic freedoms in the wake of the violent disruption.
