Gachagua, Kalonzo Team to Sue 12 Police Officers, 2 MPs Over Witima ACK Church Attack
In a joint statement issued on Thursday, February 19, opposition leaders Wiper Party’s Kalonzo Musyoka, Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, Democratic Action Party–Kenya’s Eugene Wamalwa, and Jubilee’s Fred Matiang’i declared that they would no longer engage with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, accusing him of failing to act against officers implicated in the incident.
“Legal action shall be taken against 12 police officers who allegedly participated in the Witima ACK Church attack, which was attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and two unnamed Members of Parliament who allegedly financed and facilitated the operation,” the statement read in part.
Opposition’s Accusations
“We therefore find it not only unnecessary but a disservice to Kenyans to continue engaging an Inspector General whose hands have been tied by his political masters and who presides over a force that has been turned into a private militia for the protection of those in power,” Kalonzo Musyoka said.
He added:
“Let it be clear: we will not legitimise inertia, obstruction, or political interference by continuing to make ceremonial visits to an office that has chosen silence over accountability.”
The opposition further claimed that a file containing details of the 14 individuals was meant to be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) but was allegedly intercepted by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to prevent prosecution.
According to the leaders, this move contravenes the constitution and erodes public trust in Kenya’s justice system.
Warning to Police
The opposition also cautioned Inspector General Kanja against interfering with their upcoming rallies in Nairobi, Kisii, Nyamira, and Nakuru scheduled for later this month.
“These are lawful assemblies protected under Article 37 of the Constitution of Kenya, which guarantees every person the right to peacefully assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions to public authorities,” the statement emphasized.
Gachagua’s Criticism
“We want to know who attacked the church and why they have not been prosecuted. So tomorrow, we will go to the office to know why those who harmed women and children have not been arraigned,” Gachagua said on Sunday, February 15.
The opposition leaders had earlier stormed IG Kanja’s office on February 16, demanding accountability over recent attacks at Gachagua’s events.
Broader Context
The Witima ACK Church incident has become a flashpoint in the ongoing standoff between the opposition and security agencies. Analysts note that the opposition’s decision to pursue private prosecutions reflects growing frustration with what they perceive as state interference in justice processes.
The legal action, if successful, could set a precedent for holding police officers and elected leaders accountable outside the traditional state-led mechanisms.
Conclusion
With tensions escalating, the opposition’s vow to sue 12 police officers and two MPs marks a significant escalation in its confrontation with the government. As the matter heads to court, the outcome will test Kenya’s legal institutions and their ability to balance political accountability with constitutional protections.
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Gachagua, Kalonzo Team to Sue 12 Police Officers, 2 MPs Over Witima ACK Church Attack
