‘I Am Safe,’ Gachagua Tells Supporters After Abduction Fears

A violent confrontation at Witima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, disrupted a church service on Sunday, as armed men stormed the compound, firing live ammunition and releasing tear gas. 

Vehicles were set alight, and party officials, including Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, were forced to flee. Gachagua later confirmed his safe arrival at his Wamunyoro residence, after he was evacuated with the help of local residents and his private security team. 

The DCP deputy leader, Cleophas Malala, had initially raised concerns that Gachagua had been abducted, urging his supporters to mobilise for his release. In a statement on social media, Gachagua expressed gratitude to the people of Othaya for their assistance and called for peaceful dispersal by his supporters who had gathered in nearby towns. 

He also claimed that the attack was orchestrated by an armed group backed by state security agencies, framing the incident as an attempt on his life. Political leaders across the spectrum condemned the violence, with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka calling it a violation of the Constitution and the rule of law. 

He criticised the use of force in a place of worship and called for accountability from law enforcement agencies. Gachagua has previously faced similar clashes with security forces at public gatherings.