Former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu has cast doubt on claims by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that he was targeted during a church service in Othaya, arguing that the incidents raise serious questions about credibility and motive.
He argued that the former deputy president is never harmed when in the company of opposition figures such as Fred Matiang’i, Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, or Eugene Wamalwa, but claims persecution when alone.
“How is it that Gachagua is only ‘beaten and nearly killed’ when he is in his strongholds, right in the middle of his people?” Wambugu asked, suggesting the incidents could be staged to gain political sympathy.
He compared the claims to past controversial political dramas, describing them as “mchezo ya taon.”
Wambugu further alleged that Gachagua’s political influence is waning, prompting him to resort to extreme tactics to remain relevant.
He claimed the former deputy president has no moral limits and warned the public not to be surprised if future incidents, including an alleged “kidnapping,” are reported.
A key concern raised by Wambugu was the setting of the alleged attacks. He noted that Gachagua is reportedly attacked only in churches, not in markets, farms, or political rallies.
According to him, this pattern suggests an attempt to construct a narrative linked to Kenya’s past episodes of political violence, particularly the 2007–2008 post-election crisis.
“For the sake of peace and national security, the government must arrest all the people Gachagua is working with to create violence,” Wambugu said.
Gachagua had earlier claimed that he and his allies were attacked with live bullets and tear gas during a service at Witima ACK Church, accusing President William Ruto of orchestrating the incident.