Malala threatens nationwide protests over church attack
By Kiprono Keileb, February 1, 2026Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala has warned of nationwide protests if police officers accused of attacking women and children during a church service in Othaya are not arrested or removed from duty.
Malala spoke on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at a rally in Githugi, Mathioya Constituency, Murang’a County, where he accused security agencies of failing to act despite repeated complaints by the opposition.
He said the incident, which occurred during a church service last week, had deeply angered opposition leaders and supporters, especially because it involved violence against women, children, and worshippers.
“Juzi tulikuwa kwa kanisa tukavurugwa huko, juzi tukaenda Kumwona IG Kanja, Gachagua alimwangalia Kanja kwa macho akamwambia awachane na watoto na wamama kanisani,” Malala said.
Malala explained that the opposition had already approached the Inspector General of Police, Japhet Koome Kanja, after the incident. He added that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua personally intervened, instructing police to protect places of worship and avoid harming women and children.
“Sisi tumesema wale polisi ambao walipiga wamama na watoto kanisani huko Othaya, Rigathi Gachagua amesema tumewapatia mpaka tarehe tarehe 16,” Malala said.
He issued a clear warning that if police officers implicated in the incident were not held accountable by the set date, the opposition would organise mass demonstrations across the country.
“Tarehe 16 tunarudi kwa IG Kanja na tukipata wale polisi hawajashikwa, ama kuachishwa kazi, tutapanga maandamano kenya mzima,” he stated.
Malala also highlighted concerns over past protests involving young demonstrators, insisting that officers accused of using excessive force must equally face consequences.
“Pia wale polisi walia Gen Z wakati wa maandamano washikwe pia,” he stated.
He criticised President William Ruto’s recent statements on compensating victims of protest-related violence, calling for clear timelines and amounts instead of vague promises.
“Jana Ruto anaendelea kusema wale Gen Z ambao waliumia ama kuuawa kwa maandamano watafanyiwa compensation, namwambia Ruto awache uongo na aseme siku atacompensate hao watu, na ni pesa ngapi?” Malala questioned.
Malala concluded by assuring supporters that the opposition was united and prepared to mobilise, insisting that accountability from security agencies and the government was now non-negotiable.