NAIROBI, Kenya — Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto of “crossing the red line” following reports that members of the Akorino Church were summoned to State House, amid rising tensions over a disputed parcel of land in Kiambu County.
In a statement issued Sunday, Gachagua alleged that recent police operations in Githunguri, combined with the reported State House meeting, amounted to targeted persecution of a section of the community.
“Destroying our cultural shrine and sending police to beat and humiliate our elders is declaring war on our community,” he said.
He further claimed that the invitation of Akorino members to the State House was aimed at “sanitizing” the government amid accusations of profiling and mistreatment, though he did not provide evidence to support the claims.
Gachagua also criticised individuals who reportedly attended the meeting, accusing them of betraying community interests. He alleged that financial inducements had been prepared for attendees, a claim that could not be independently verified.
The remarks come against the backdrop of escalating unrest in Githunguri, where a disputed 58-acre parcel of land has triggered clashes between residents and security agencies. Community members, including elders, have opposed plans to repurpose the land for an affordable housing project, arguing that it holds cultural significance.
Two days earlier, police used teargas to disperse groups of protesters who had gathered to oppose the alleged conversion of the land. Tensions escalated after officers reportedly blocked access roads to prevent members of the Kikuyu Council of Elders from reaching the site.
Residents said the land was historically designated as a cultural shrine and warned against any development without public participation, citing concerns over community rights and heritage preservation.
The heavy security presence and confrontations have heightened political sensitivities in the region, with leaders weighing in on both governance and cultural issues linked to land use.
No official response had been issued by the State House regarding the alleged summons or the claims raised by Gachagua at the time of publication.
