“Where Do We Get Tear Gas?” Gachagua Blasts Claims He Staged Chaos at Witima Church as Congregants Flee Smoke

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Sunday evening dismissed accusations that he orchestrated the teargas attack at Witima ACK Church in Othaya, which left congregants and church leaders scrambling for safety.

Speaking at a press briefing shortly after the incident, Gachagua challenged the logic behind claims suggesting he could stage such chaos. 

“I’ve seen a lot of nonsense by government bloggers trying to say that we can stage-manage our own attack,” he said. 

“Where can we get access to teargas? Is it sold in a supermarket or in Gikomba? Where do we get access to AK-47 assault rifles, government Land Cruisers, or police uniforms? We can’t, and Kenyans are not foolish.”

The former deputy president described the attack as an unsettling display of state power misused against worshippers. 

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Eyewitnesses reported that the teargas caused panic among congregants, including children and the elderly, forcing them to flee the church in distress.

Gachagua framed the incident as both a political and constitutional concern, questioning why government forces would target a place of worship. 

“People are left in anguish, wondering why their own government can turn against the Church of Christ and its leaders,” he said.

The attack has sparked widespread outrage, with calls from religious leaders, civil society, and political analysts for an independent investigation. 

Police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing, but questions remain about accountability and the protection of citizens in spaces meant to be safe.