Gachagua Claims ‘Killer Squad’ Redeployed After Alleged Failed Othaya Church Assassination Attempt

Gachagua Claims ‘Killer Squad’ Redeployed After Alleged Failed Othaya Church Assassination Attempt

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made fresh allegations against security agencies, claiming that a special police unit he previously accused of attempting to assassinate him has been redeployed to Nyeri County ahead of the June 25 demonstrations.

The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader alleged that the officers, whom he referred to as a “killer squad,” were operating under the code name “Nairobi Sierra” and had recently assembled in the Mathira area with plans to orchestrate violence during the nationwide protests.

In a statement released on Wednesday evening, Gachagua claimed the officers were part of the same group he accused of targeting him during a controversial incident at ACK Witima Church in Othaya earlier this year.

“Since I was targeted for assassination then by this killer squad in church, I am apprehensive; probably Mr Kipchumba Murkomen and DIG Lagat have instructed them to proceed to Wamunyoro and complete the job they failed to do in January,” Gachagua alleged.

The claims, which have not been independently verified, come at a time of heightened political tension as Kenya marks the anniversary of the June 25 Gen Z-led demonstrations that shook the country in 2024 and 2025.

Fresh Security Concerns Ahead of June 25 Demonstrations

According to Gachagua, the officers had gathered in Mathira and were allegedly preparing to coordinate disturbances in parts of Nyeri County before security agencies intervene under the pretext of restoring order.

The former Deputy President claimed that businesses in Karatina and surrounding areas could be targeted as part of a broader plan to create instability during the demonstrations.

While no evidence was immediately presented to support the allegations, the remarks have intensified public debate around security preparations ahead of the nationwide protests.

Government officials have not publicly responded to the latest claims by the time of publication.

Revisiting the Othaya Church Incident

Gachagua’s latest statement revives allegations he first made following a dramatic incident at ACK Witima Church in Othaya in January.

The church service, which he was attending, was disrupted after teargas was reportedly lobbed into the sanctuary, triggering panic among worshippers and forcing congregants to flee the premises.

Following the incident, Gachagua claimed that the disruption was not random but part of a carefully orchestrated attempt on his life.

At the time, he alleged that a team of 12 specially trained officers had been dispatched to target him during the church service.

During a press conference held on January 30, the former Deputy President demanded the arrest and prosecution of those allegedly involved and warned that he would mobilize nationwide demonstrations if no action was taken.

“This was not an ordinary security incident. It was a calculated operation aimed at eliminating me,” Gachagua claimed at the time.

Claims of Promotions and Redeployment

In his latest remarks, Gachagua further alleged that officers identified after the Othaya incident were never investigated or disciplined.

Instead, he claimed they were promoted and reassigned to operations targeting individuals perceived to oppose President William Ruto’s administration.

The former Mathira MP also alleged that the unit had expanded from 12 to 15 members and was now operating in Nyeri County.

The accusations add to a series of security-related claims that Gachagua has made since leaving office.

Previous Assassination Allegations

This is not the first time the former Deputy President has alleged attempts on his life.

In October 2024, Gachagua claimed that several assassination attempts had been made against him, including an alleged poisoning plot during a visit to Kisumu.

The claims attracted national attention and prompted the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to summon him to record a formal statement.

At the time, detectives described the allegations as serious and deserving of investigation.

Government officials, however, maintained that any claims involving threats to life should be supported by credible evidence and subjected to independent investigations.

Political Tensions Continue to Rise

Gachagua’s latest assertions come amid increasing political activity ahead of the 2027 General Election and heightened public attention surrounding the June 25 memorial demonstrations.

The anniversary has become a significant political moment following the historic Gen Z-led protests that challenged government policies and sparked nationwide debate on governance, accountability, and youth participation.

As political leaders continue to exchange accusations and security agencies intensify preparations, attention remains focused on ensuring that commemorative activities proceed peacefully.

For now, Gachagua’s allegations remain unproven, but they are likely to fuel further political discussion as the country navigates an increasingly charged political environment ahead of the next electoral cycle.

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Gachagua Claims ‘Killer Squad’ Redeployed After Alleged Failed Othaya Church Assassination Attempt