Nyeri, Kenya – Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku, has accused former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of orchestrating violence and chaos at public gatherings to portray himself as a victim and win public sympathy.
Ruku’s remarks came after chaotic scenes unfolded on Sunday during a church service in Nyeri, attended by Gachagua, where disorder erupted and police lobbed teargas inside the church, forcing congregants to flee.
Allegations of Orchestrated Chaos
The CS claimed the incident was not accidental, alleging that Gachagua moves with armed groups who deliberately cause disruptions at meetings and church services he attends.
“This is the same pattern we witnessed during the Mbeere North by-election campaigns, where his goons attacked an innocent youth and broke his leg,” Ruku said.
He cautioned Kenyans against falling for what he termed “well-organized schemes” designed to manufacture victimhood, spread hatred, and mislead the public about the government.
Ruku stressed that places of worship should never be turned into arenas for political drama, warning that the government will not tolerate acts of lawlessness disguised as political victimization.
Pattern of Violence
According to Ruku, the Nyeri incident mirrors a broader pattern of violence linked to Gachagua’s political camp. He urged leaders to stop using youths to advance personal political interests through intimidation and chaos.
“Intimidation and violence have no place in Kenya’s democratic space,” he said.
Mt Kenya Politics
Turning to regional politics, Ruku dismissed claims that the Mt Kenya region could shift its political allegiance. He declared Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki the undisputed Mt Kenya kingpin, praising his leadership and asserting that the region remains firmly within government.
Ruku urged residents of Mt Kenya Central and West to remain loyal, noting that with Kindiki at the heart of power, the region is well positioned to benefit from development projects. He warned that attempts to lure the region into opposition would derail progress and deny residents essential services.
The CS also accused Gachagua of political arrogance, urging him to respect the Deputy President and acknowledge the unity between Mt Kenya East, Central, and West. He emphasized that Mt Kenya East has consistently stood with the rest of the region and deserves recognition in national leadership.
“Mt Kenya East played a critical role in the struggle for independence and should not be sidelined,” Ruku said, calling for unity and mutual respect across the wider region.
Reactions from Leaders
Chuka Igambang’ombe MP Patrick Munene echoed Ruku’s sentiments, describing the Nyeri church incident as a “well-scripted drama” by Gachagua. He dismissed claims that police targeted the former Deputy President but condemned the use of teargas in a church, terming it disrespectful to religious institutions.
Tigania East MP Mpuri Apuri also condemned the incident, warning against what he termed “politics of conmanship” by selfish individuals.
Conclusion
The Nyeri church chaos has reignited debate over political conduct in Kenya, with CS Ruku and allied leaders accusing Rigathi Gachagua of manufacturing victimhood through orchestrated violence. As the Mt Kenya regional debate intensifies, the government insists it remains firmly on course in delivering its development agenda, urging unity and rejecting political hostility.
