NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a stern warning to Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators, accusing some matatu saccos of allegedly facilitating the ferrying of goons to sabotage his public engagements.
Speaking during an interview on Kameme FM and Kameme TV on Monday, January 12, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader claimed that individuals linked to President William Ruto’s administration were hiring PSV vehicles to disrupt his rallies and those of his political allies.
Gachagua alleged that some matatu owners—particularly those operating routes in Thika—were unaware that their vehicles had been allegedly hired for what he described as covert operations to cause chaos at his events.
He warned sacco owners to exercise caution, saying they risk losing their vehicles if they allow them to be used to transport violent groups.
According to Gachagua, more than 20 PSV vehicles were allegedly hired to ferry goons to Gatundu, where he was holding a public engagement, but residents intervened before violence could erupt.
He claimed the situation nearly escalated, adding that locals were angered by what they perceived as a deliberate attempt to disrupt peace.
The former deputy president further alleged that the goons were operating under police protection, accusing security officers of siding with those sent to cause unrest.
His remarks follow an incident on Sunday in Gatundu, where Gachagua claimed an attempt was made to attack him during a church service.
He alleged that residents swiftly neutralised the group and accused police of lobbing teargas canisters inside the church, which he said was full of women, children and other congregants.
Gachagua praised residents of Gatundu South for standing their ground, describing them as courageous and determined to protect their community from what he termed “state-sponsored militia.”
He also accused authorities of attempting to disrupt several public rallies and intimidate his supporters.
