National Police Service Denies Bias Amid Gachagua’s Claim of Attack Threats in Mbeere North Campaigns

National Police Service Denies Bias Amid Gachagua’s Claim of Attack Threats in Mbeere North Campaigns

The National Police Service (NPS) has denied allegations of bias in its operations ahead of the upcoming Mbeere North by‑elections, insisting it remains politically neutral and committed to safeguarding all Kenyans.

In a statement issued on Thursday, November 13, the police service reaffirmed its impartiality and assured the public of adequate security measures during the campaigns and voting period. The assurance comes in the wake of claims by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that his supporters faced threats of violence ahead of his scheduled campaign tour in the constituency.

“The National Police Service remains neutral and is dedicated solely to its duty of maintaining law and order. We are committed to serving all Kenyans impartially and to ensuring that the electoral process is not marred by security concerns,” the statement read in part.

The NPS said it had developed a multifaceted security plan in collaboration with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to guarantee safety during the November 27 mini‑poll.

Warning Against Violence

The police further cautioned politicians and their supporters against engaging in incitement, violence, or hate speech, warning that such actions would attract legal consequences.

“We will not tolerate any form of violence, incitement, hate speech, destruction of property or disruption of public order,” the statement noted.

“Politicians are urged to promote peace and tolerance and to be mindful that any unlawful actions will be met with the full force of the law.”

Gachagua’s Allegations

The statement followed explosive allegations by Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, who accused Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja of bias. Gachagua claimed that individuals linked to local political actors had issued threats against him and his party ahead of his campaign tour.

On Wednesday, November 12, Gachagua released a statement urging the Inspector General to arrest those seen in a viral video allegedly threatening him.

“Despite the evidence and information in your custody, the above persons have not been arraigned. We demand that ahead of the by‑elections, the above persons must be arrested immediately, arraigned and charged under the penal code,” Gachagua said.

The former Deputy President is expected to begin a four‑day campaign tour of Mbeere North on November 16, rallying support for the opposition’s preferred candidate. He has urged authorities to guarantee a level playing field during the polls.

Police Appeal to Citizens

The NPS encouraged Kenyans to remain calm and exercise their democratic right to vote without fear. Citizens were urged to report any suspicious activities, incitement, or incidents of violence to local police stations or through the service’s toll‑free hotlines.

“We call upon all Kenyans to remain vigilant and report any threats to peace. The police service is committed to ensuring that every voter participates in a safe and secure environment,” the statement concluded.

IEBC Guidelines

Meanwhile, the IEBC has issued fresh guidelines for the by‑elections. Campaigns will run strictly between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily, beginning October 8 and ending on November 25.

Independent candidates seeking to contest must obtain clearance certificates from the Registrar of Political Parties, confirming they have not been members of any political party for at least three months prior to the election date.

Conclusion

As tensions rise ahead of the November 27 by‑elections, the police service’s denial of bias and its call for peace highlight the delicate balance between political competition and national security. With Gachagua’s allegations adding pressure, all eyes will be on Mbeere North to see whether the polls proceed peacefully and transparently.

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National Police Service Denies Bias Amid Gachagua’s Claim of Attack Threats in Mbeere North Campaigns