- The opposition leaders planned to return to Othaya for a mega political rally after DCP’s event was cancelled last week
- Gachagua and his team, and the church members, were forced to flee for safety after police and suspected goons stormed the Witima ACK Church
- The leaders explained the motive of the visit despite the chaotic scenes that unfolded at the church
Nancy Odindo, a TUKO.co.ke journalist, has five years of experience covering Kenyan politics, news, and features in digital and print media.
Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua is set to return to Othaya in Nyeri county for a religious and politically charged meeting just a week after the police interrupted his service.
Source: Facebook
On Sunday, January 25, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader and his allies were forced to flee the Witima ACK Church after 15 police officers and masked individuals teargassed and allegedly fired live bullets.
The service was interrupted, forcing the clergy to end the sermon amid several injuries.
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Gachagua claimed that the attack was an assassination attempt on his life and that it was organised by two Members of Parliament, senior government officials, and the security apparatus.
Why is the opposition returning to Othaya?
According to the opposition, the return to Mt. Kenya on Sunday, February 1, signifies a stand against alleged state intimidation and an assurance to the public that they won’t back down.
The opposition also says that religious institutions must remain open to all leaders without fear as they continue their fight for democracy.
Gachagua and the joint opposition team would begin their visit to a Murang’a church for a church service before returning to Othaya town, where he cancelled his tour after the chaotic scenes unfolded last week.
“On Sunday, we will head to a church service in Murang’a and then return to Othaya. We must reach our people whether they like it or not,” said Eugene Wamalwa, DAP-Kenya leader.
Did Gachagua visit IG Kanja’s office?
The visit came days after the leaders held a high-level meeting with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, which aimed at addressing growing concerns over the safety and security of opposition leaders.
DCP deputy leader Cleophas Malala asserted that over 20 incidents, including attacks by criminal gangs and politically motivated groups, had been documented, yet no follow-ups have been witnessed.
The leaders, including Wiper Patriotic Front leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Wamalwa, Democratic Party boss Justin Muturi, Jubilee’s deputy leader Fred Matiang’i, and Martha Karua of the People Liberation Party, underscored the constitutional mandate of the police, including providing impartial security to all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations.
Source: Facebook
Why is Gachagua always attacked in churches?
Meanwhile, speaking after the incident, Kiambu senator Karungo Wa Thang’wa claimed that Gachagua has faced constant attacks due to fear of the police confronting him in public places.
According to Karungo, the accused senior officials exploit the churches’ enclosed nature and their small attendance to instil fear in the public.
Karungo further alleged that when the attacks occur at public rallies, Gachagua’s supporters may reiterate and cause an unwanted scene.
Proofreading by Jackson Otukho, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
