Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has raised the alarm over what he described as shrinking democratic space in Kenya, following reports that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was attacked while travelling to Kagio, Kirinyaga County, on Friday.
Kalonzo condemned the alleged use of police, live ammunition, and hired individuals to intimidate Gachagua, calling the acts “a direct attack on our democracy.”
He stressed that opposition leaders must operate freely, without fear of harassment, and warned that no political figure, regardless of their position, should have the power to silence dissenting voices.
Speaking alongside church leaders, Kalonzo also rejected attempts to regulate religious institutions, calling such moves unconstitutional.
“Freedom of worship is guaranteed in our Constitution,” he said. “Churches must remain sacred spaces, free from political interference. Any attempt to control them threatens the moral fabric of the nation.”
The Wiper leader urged citizens to actively participate in the democratic process by registering as voters.
He argued that Kenya needs leaders who prioritise service to the people over personal gain, noting that true leadership is measured by the impact on communities rather than wealth or political influence.
Kalonzo further criticised President William Ruto’s administration, claiming that state institutions, including Parliament, are being used to advance partisan interests.
He warned that efforts to extend presidential term limits and manipulate laws for personal enrichment undermine public trust and democracy.
He called on Kenyans to remain vigilant and protect democratic freedoms, insisting that political power must serve citizens, not entrench individual dominance.
The incident involving Gachagua, he said, highlights the urgent need to safeguard the principles of multiparty democracy and ensure that opposition voices are respected and protected.