NAIROBI, Kenya — Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto’s administration of sponsoring political violence following the deadly attack on the Linda Mwananchi convoy in Kisii, claims that have not been independently verified.
In a statement posted on his X account on Sunday, Gachagua alleged that criminal gangs were operating alongside rogue police officers to intimidate opposition leaders and supporters ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“Everywhere, it is goons,” Gachagua said, alleging that Kenya had become increasingly insecure due to politically motivated violence.
His remarks came a day after 36-year-old Vincent Osiemo, popularly known as Mapinduzi, died after the Linda Mwananchi convoy was attacked by youths armed with stones and clubs in the Keumbu area of Kisii County. Police have since arrested eight suspects as investigations continue.
Allegations against security agencies
Gachagua claimed that sections of the National Police Service were working in collaboration with criminal gangs and accused senior security officials of failing to stop the violence.
He further alleged that police officers deployed to the Kenyan-led security mission in Haiti had returned with tactics of working alongside gangs, an assertion for which he did not provide evidence.
The former Deputy President also claimed that police in Kisii had been instructed to work with the attackers during Friday’s violence. He cited previous incidents in Mwiki, Kariobangi, Witima, Ol Kalou and along Thika Road as part of what he described as a coordinated campaign of intimidation.
He further alleged that a special squad had been stationed in Ol Kalou ahead of an upcoming by-election, claiming its members were awaiting instructions to cause chaos. No evidence was presented to support the allegation.
Calls for political change
Gachagua urged Kenyans to use the ballot to remove the current administration in the next General Election, saying the country could restore stability through democratic means.
He also referenced the January 2008 Kiambaa church killings, warning against a return to the political violence witnessed during the 2007–2008 post-election crisis.
Police investigations continue
The opposition has intensified criticism of the government’s handling of security following the Kisii attack, with several leaders demanding accountability from security agencies.
Authorities have confirmed the arrest of eight suspects linked to the Keumbu violence, while detectives have summoned Nyaribari Chache MP Zaheer Jhanda to record a statement as investigations continue.
Investigations into the Kisii attack are ongoing.