Former Chief Justice David Maraga has accused the government of sponsoring an attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and congregants at Witima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, terming the incident a grave assault on Kenya’s democratic values.

In a statement posted on his X account on Sunday, January 25, 2025, Maraga strongly condemned the incident, which he said targeted both a political leader and ordinary worshippers in a sacred space.

“We strongly condemn today’s attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and worshippers at Witima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County,” Maraga said.

He went on to directly lay blame on the state, alleging that the violence was not spontaneous but orchestrated.

“This was executed by government-sponsored thugs. A great shame,” he stated.

Constitutional violation

Maraga warned that the use of violence and intimidation, particularly in places of worship, undermines the foundations of the country’s constitutional order and threatens social cohesion.

“Violence and intimidation, especially in places of worship, have no place in our democracy,” he said.

The former Chief Justice called for those responsible to be held to account, urging state institutions to act in line with the Constitution rather than remain silent in the face of alleged political violence.

“We call for accountability and respect for the Constitution,” Maraga added.

Police launch investigations

The incident has since sparked public outrage and renewed calls for investigations into the alleged involvement of state-linked actors.

In a statement, the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed it is investigating the disruption of a church service at St Peter’s ACK Church in Witima on Sunday morning.

“The National Police Service has taken note of a deeply regrettable incident that took place at about 11 am at St Peter’s ACK Church, Witima, Othaya, Nyeri County, where several political figures, including DCP leader Hon Rigathi Gachagua, were in attendance,” the statement read.

The NPS said the Regional Police Commander for Central had directed the Nyeri Criminal Investigations Officer to secure the scene and commence investigations, while the Inspector General ordered the Internal Affairs Unit to move in with urgency.

“The National Police Service abhors all forms of violence. Those found to have perpetrated this callous disruption of a church service shall be dealt with firmly and swiftly as per the law,” the statement added.