Leader of Majority in the National Assembly Kimani Ichung'wah has sharply criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his defence of Mukurweini MP John Kaguchia, escalating a political standoff over the lawmaker’s arrest and subsequent High Court release order.
Speaking on Tuesday, August 4 during a meeting at State House attended by village elders and convened by President William Ruto, Ichung’wah faulted Gachagua for what he termed as shielding leaders facing legal scrutiny.
“I have heard those tribal leaders. When a leader says something, you as his senior should stop defending him after legal action has been taken against him over statements that might cause chaos in the country,” Ichung’wah said.
His remarks come a day after Gachagua warned police against defying a High Court order directing Kaguchia’s release on a cash bail of KSh100,000, and accused senior officers of frustrating its implementation.
Leadership Responsibility Debate
Ichung’wah argued that leadership must prioritise national stability over political loyalty, insisting that leaders should condemn, not defend, individuals accused of actions that could incite unrest.
“If you are a true leader, you should not be talking about the arrest of people who are perpetuating criminality and endangering the lives of other Kenyans. You should be condemning them,” he said.
He further accused unnamed political figures of exploiting such incidents for personal gain.
“Shame on you if you cannot condemn them; all you can do is try to seek cheap political capital,” he added.
Growing Political Rift
The exchange highlights deepening divisions within the political class, with Gachagua positioning himself as a defender of due process and court authority, while Ichung’wah frames the issue as one of national security and responsible leadership.
Gachagua had earlier warned that police officers risk contempt of court proceedings if they fail to comply with judicial orders, citing personal liability for those who ignore such directives.
Case Background
The High Court in Kiambu ordered Kaguchia’s immediate release upon payment of bail after his arrest on August 3.
The court also directed state agencies to respond within 14 days, with the matter set for further hearing in September.