MURANG’A, Kenya — United Opposition leaders, led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, are attending a church service in Gitugi, Murang’a County on Sunday,, as part of a broader tour of the Mt Kenya region.
The gathering follows last week’s disruption of a service in Othaya, Nyeri County, which triggered political outrage and calls for accountability.
The opposition’s return to Murang’a came amid increased tensions after a service held on January 25 at Witima ACK Church in Othaya was disrupted, an incident that saw tear gas deployed inside the church compound and vehicles damaged, according to reports and claims by Gachagua.
The former Deputy President said he and worshippers were caught up in chaos that interrupted the proceedings.
After the Gitugi service, United Opposition figures, including leaders from several political parties, are expected to proceed to Othaya later on Sunday to hold a series of meetings and rallies aimed at consolidating support in the region.
The tour underscores growing political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Gachagua and his allies have called on security forces to guarantee their safety during the planned events.
In remarks before the Gitugi gathering, Gachagua warned that if officers do not protect opposition meetings, they should not attempt to interfere, adding that suspected specialised units had been deployed against them.
Opposition leaders, including Wiper’s Kalonzo Musyoka, Democratic Party’s Justin Muturi, People’s Liberation Party’s Martha Karua, and DAP‑Kenya’s Eugene Wamalwa, have rallied around Gachagua’s call for investigations into the Othaya incident, which they argue amounted to harassment and intimidation of political actors.
Heavy police presence at ACK St Mark Church in Gitugi, Murang’a County, where United Opposition leaders are attending church service
In response to the disruption in Othaya, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen ordered an immediate police investigation, condemning violence in a place of worship and assuring the public that inquiries would be carried out.
The National Police Service has acknowledged the incident and said it is probing the circumstances that led to tear gas deployment and property damage.
Gachagua also used his platform following the earlier attack to confirm his safety after leaving Othaya, thanking local residents who assisted his private security team.
He emphasised that church services and political engagement should proceed without fear.
