Nairobi, January 26- Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has alleged that he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt after chaos erupted during a church service at Wairima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, on Sunday.
The incident occurred when teargas was released within the church compound, forcing worshippers including women, children and the elderly to flee in panic. Several vehicles were damaged as confusion spread. Gachagua, who was attending the service and was expected to address congregants, was evacuated by his private security team with the help of local residents. Videos shared online showed him fleeing through nearby bushes and jumping over a fence.
In a statement later that day, Gachagua said he had safely arrived at his Wamunyoro residence and thanked Othaya residents for helping his security team evacuate him.
“I thank God for His mercy and kindness… I am now safe having just arrived at my Wamunyoro residence,” he said.
He urged supporters gathered in Othaya Town and Kiawara to disperse peacefully, saying vehicles had been disabled and sound systems dismantled.
Speaking to journalists at his home, Gachagua described the incident as a government-sanctioned assassination attempt, claiming a “killer squad” backed by local police targeted him inside the church.
“I did not know the desperation had reached a point where they could dare attack a place of worship, with children inside,” he said, alleging the attackers were members of a notorious police unit operating under the cover of local officers. He also accused two MPs from Nyeri and Murang’a counties of planning the attack.
The National Police Service rejected the claims, dismissing allegations of an assassination attempt. In a statement on its official X account, the NPS termed the incident regrettable and condemned the disruption of a religious gathering.
Police said the Inspector General had directed the Internal Affairs Unit to investigate the incident, stressing that the service remains committed to protecting lives and the constitutional freedom of worship. The NPS urged the public to avoid speculation as investigations continue.
The incident has sparked widespread reactions, with leaders and civil society groups calling for accountability and restraint amid rising political tensions.
