Nairobi (KAAB TV) – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has alleged that senior government officials are orchestrating plans to harm him and interfere with campaigns ahead of the November 27 Mbeere North parliamentary by-election.
Speaking during an interview in Kanyuambora, Mbeere North, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader claimed that top state operatives had, on several occasions, attempted to endanger his life. Gachagua said these claims were based on information he received from individuals within the National Police Service.
He stated that he cancelled his planned attendance at the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s burial service at Nyayo National Stadium after receiving warnings of an alleged plot to have him attacked by plainclothes officers, in what he claimed would be framed as an assault by members of the Luo community.
According to Gachagua, similar threats had emerged at previous public events — including in Limuru, at a PCEA Mwiki church service, and upon his return from the United States. He alleged that individuals purportedly sent to harm him were never apprehended.
Gachagua further claimed he had been warned of another plot targeting him during Raila Odinga’s burial in Bondo, Siaya County, insisting that the intention was to fuel ethnic tension between the Luo and Kikuyu communities.
He also criticised President William Ruto and senior government officials for what he described as “crocodile tears” during Raila’s funeral, arguing that their expressions of sympathy were insincere.
Gachagua said he had spoken with Raila’s daughter, Winnie Odinga, and promised to visit the family after completing the Mbeere North campaigns. He said he intends to lead a delegation of political, religious and community leaders to strengthen relations between the Kikuyu and Luo communities.
Praising Raila as a principled leader, Gachagua said DCP aims to emulate ODM’s organizational structure.
He added that the Mt Kenya region made a strategic error by entering the 2022 General Election without a strong regional party, arguing that aligning with UDA left the region politically disadvantaged.
Turning to the Mbeere North by-election, Gachagua urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure a free, fair and credible process.
He encouraged youth aged 18–35 to safeguard the vote, alleging — without providing evidence — that attempts may be made to disrupt the election.
He accused President Ruto, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire of using state machinery to influence the outcome in favour of UDA candidate Leonard Wamuthende. Mbarire is also the party’s national chairperson.
Gachagua claimed that CS Ruku was using state resources to sway voters, although these allegations could not be independently verified.
He urged residents to “take the money but vote wisely” on November 27, campaigning for his preferred candidate, Newton Kariuki of the Democratic Party (DP).
Rejecting accusations of incitement, Gachagua insisted that “the State is the one provoking chaos.” He encouraged Mbeere North residents to resist intimidation, bribery and political coercion.
Gachagua is campaigning alongside several opposition leaders, including DP leader Justin Muturi, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K leader Eugene Wamalwa, former Agriculture CS Mithika Linturi and former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti.
The by-election was triggered after former MP Geoffrey Ruku was appointed Public Service Cabinet Secretary. Muturi — who previously held the same position before falling out with the Kenya Kwanza administration — is now supporting Kariuki.
Gachagua concluded by reaffirming the opposition’s goal of unseating President Ruto in the 2027 General Election, stating:
“Our issue is Ruto, and we must vote him out. You cannot force leadership on the people.”