Ruto Warns Against Chaos and Excessive Force in Places of Worship
President William Ruto has issued a firm warning against disorder, political confrontations, and the use of excessive force inside places of worship, following chaotic scenes witnessed during a church service in Othaya that was attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Speaking on Sunday, February 1, at the PEFA All Nations Gospel Church in Gikomba, Nairobi, the President condemned what he described as a worrying trend of politicising religious gatherings, stressing that churches must remain neutral spaces dedicated to worship, peace, and mutual respect.
Without directly referring to the Othaya incident or naming individuals involved, Ruto urged political actors and security agencies alike to uphold restraint and decorum whenever religious institutions are involved.
“I want us to ask ourselves as Kenyans; we can practise politics, we can look for leadership, but when it comes to church, that should be a place of respect,” the President said, drawing applause from congregants.
The President’s remarks come days after violence and confusion erupted at a church event in Othaya, Nyeri County, where Gachagua was among the expected guests. The former Deputy President later claimed he was forced to flee through nearby bushes after the situation spiralled out of control, alleging that his life was in danger.
The incident has since triggered a heated exchange between opposition leaders and the government. Opposition figures accused state agencies of intimidation and selective application of the law, while authorities, through the National Police Service (NPS), maintained that Gachagua and his team failed to notify local security officials in advance of their attendance at the church function.
In his address on Sunday, President Ruto directed a pointed message to security officers, urging them to exercise professionalism and restraint, particularly in sensitive environments such as places of worship.
“All arms of security must ensure our places of worship are shielded from unnecessary and retrogressive battles and politics,” he said.
The Othaya episode has reignited debate over the intersection of politics, religion, and security in Kenya, with leaders across the political divide calling for clearer guidelines on how political figures should engage in church activities.
In response to the incident, opposition leaders led by Rigathi Gachagua, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua held talks with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja at Vigilance House on January 30. The meeting sought to address concerns over security conduct and political intolerance.
Following the discussions, IG Kanja pledged to improve cooperation between the police and political leaders, emphasising the importance of dialogue and mutual trust.
“We are looking forward to more open and positive collaboration and feedback to ensure security operations are professional and impartial,” Kanja said after the meeting.
Days later, Gachagua and other opposition leaders attended a separate church service in Murang’a County, an event that was characterised by heightened police presence but passed without incident. Observers said the deployment underscored growing caution by security agencies amid heightened political temperatures.
Political analysts note that churches have increasingly become arenas for political messaging and mobilisation, especially as the country inches closer to the 2027 General Election. They warn that unless clear boundaries are respected, religious spaces risk becoming flashpoints for confrontation.
President Ruto reiterated his call for unity and restraint, urging leaders to prioritise national cohesion over political rivalry.
“Our differences should never be allowed to destroy institutions meant to bring us together as a people,” he added.
As investigations and consultations continue, Kenyans are watching closely to see whether the calls for calm and respect will translate into lasting changes in how politics and security are managed within places of worship.
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Ruto Warns Against Chaos and Excessive Force in Places of Worship
