Gachagua Alleges Ruto Allies Are Seeking to Join His Camp
Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his criticism of the government over security, claiming that Kenyans may be forced to defend themselves if the state fails to protect them from rising cases of violence and lawlessness.
Speaking in the wake of recent incidents of political violence, including the chaos witnessed during the Ol Kalou by-election campaigns and attacks involving armed individuals whose identities were concealed, Gachagua accused the government of failing to guarantee citizens’ safety.
The former Deputy President argued that the Constitution recognizes the right to self-defence, insisting that citizens should not remain vulnerable if security agencies are unable to provide adequate protection.
“The Constitution acknowledges the right to self-defence. If the state cannot protect the people, the people shall protect themselves from goons and from rogue policemen. We have taken this nonsense for too long.”
His remarks come amid growing concern over incidents involving alleged goon attacks and armed individuals operating with concealed identities, which have fueled public debate over security and the rule of law.
Gachagua also referenced the violence witnessed in Ol Kalou and other parts of the country, saying the incidents demonstrate a worrying breakdown in law and order.
The comments are likely to add to an already heated political exchange between the opposition and the government over the country’s security situation.
In recent weeks, senior government officials have warned against remarks they believe could incite the public. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has previously indicated that authorities would take action against individuals found violating the law through inflammatory statements.
Despite criticism from the Kenya Kwanza administration, Gachagua maintained that recent political developments reflect growing dissatisfaction among voters, particularly in the Mount Kenya region.
He claimed the outcome of the Ol Kalou by-election showed that residents are demanding dignity and accountability after overwhelmingly supporting President William Ruto during the 2022 General Election.
According to Gachagua, many voters now feel disappointed by the government’s performance, a sentiment he believes is reshaping the political landscape ahead of the 2027 polls.
The DCP leader further claimed that several politicians currently allied to President Ruto have privately initiated discussions with him as they consider possible political realignments before the next General Election.
Although he did not identify the leaders, Gachagua suggested that the shifting political dynamics reflect changing alliances as parties position themselves for the 2027 contest.
He also accused President Ruto of attempting to regain support in the Mount Kenya region through development projects and financial incentives, arguing that residents are more interested in meaningful economic empowerment than political promises.
The by-election outcome has intensified debate over President Ruto’s standing in one of his key political strongholds, with both the government and opposition interpreting the results as an indicator of the region’s political mood.
As preparations for the 2027 General Election gather pace, the latest remarks by Gachagua are expected to further sharpen the political contest between Kenya Kwanza and the opposition, with security, governance, and economic issues likely to dominate the national conversation.
