Gachagua accuses police of shielding armed men ahead of his Nyeri rally
By Kiprono Keileb, January 8, 2026Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has raised alarm over what he calls the police protection of armed individuals in Nyeri Town, a few hours before his scheduled public engagement.
In a statement shared on X on Thursday, January 8, 2026, Gachagua questioned why law enforcement officers were allowing a group of people carrying crude weapons to walk freely in the streets.
“I thought the President gave you instructions in public that goons should not be allowed to terrorise the Kenyans anywhere in Kenya?” Gachagua asked in a post on X, attaching a video showing the group in public.
He further criticised the apparent inaction of police officers who were escorting the armed individuals, saying it was intimidating residents ahead of his meeting.
“Why are your officers escorting goons armed with crude weapons in the streets of Nyeri Town, harassing residents ahead of my meeting this afternoon?” Gachagua added.
He also called for accountability, urging authorities to uphold the President’s instructions on preventing intimidation and ensuring public safety for all citizens.
Gachagua questioned public safety and the role of police in maintaining neutrality during politically charged events.
Gachagua says there is a need for clear enforcement of security protocols to prevent violence or intimidation during political engagements, particularly in the lead-up to key meetings or rallies. Gachagua concluded by insisting that the public should be able to participate in civic events without fear of harassment or intimidation.