Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has condemned what he termed as the politically motivated abduction of Juja MP George Koimburi, stating that the growing “one-term presidency” movement cannot be silenced through fear or intimidation.

Speaking on Monday, May 26, 2025, during a visit to Karen Hospital where Koimburi is recuperating, Gachagua said the state was using repression to fight dissent. He warned that the push for President William Ruto to serve only one term will not be stopped by threats or violence.

“The one-term movement is unstoppable, and there is nothing the President can do,” Gachagua said.

“He can kill these leaders, abduct them, torture them, but he cannot do that to all the people of Kenya.”

MP Found Injured

Koimburi was found dumped in a coffee plantation in Kiambu County under unclear circumstances. He was later moved to Plainsview Hospital near Ruiru town for further medical attention.

According to his family, the legislator was abducted by unknown individuals outside a church in Mugutha on Sunday. His wife, Ann Koimburi, sustained injuries during the scuffle.

Video footage from the scene shows the MP being forced into a silver Subaru Forester with civilian registration plates. The dramatic incident has sparked widespread concern over the safety of leaders critical of the government.

DCI denies role

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has denied any involvement in the incident, although it confirmed Koimburi has been under investigation since Friday for alleged land fraud and misuse of Constituency Development Funds (CDF).

Koimburi’s wife voiced frustration over the lack of transparency, recalling previous instances when authorities took her husband’s phone and vehicle with no explanation or follow-up.

“We’ve been left in the dark too many times. We need answers,” she said.

Gachagua likened Koimburi’s ordeal to a broader strategy to silence Mt Kenya leaders who have refused to toe the line. He urged Kenyans to stand firm in defending their freedoms.

“Even if they target individuals, the people have already made a decision,” Gachagua added.

Human rights groups have since called for an independent investigation into the abduction and urged the government to protect all political actors regardless of their affiliations.