Karatina, Kenya — Supporters of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua took to the streets on Tuesday, blocking highways and burning tyres in protest over what they believe is a threat to his life.
In Karatina, Nyeri County, and parts of neighbouring Kirinyaga, demonstrators marched with placards, chanting Gachagua’s name. Fires burned along the Mwea–Embu road as police moved in to disperse the crowds.
The protests came less than 24 hours after Gachagua made explosive allegations during a press briefing in Nairobi. Speaking calmly but firmly, he accused President William Ruto’s government of orchestrating a plot to “eliminate” him.
“If anything happens to me,” he said, “let it be known that the president gave the orders. He said I must be dealt with, once and for all.”
The former deputy president claimed that more than 100 security officers including personnel from the police, intelligence service and elite GSU unit had been sent to monitor a church service he attended in Gatanga, Murang’a County, over the weekend.
He further alleged a plan to plant illegal weapons in his vehicles and those of his allies. “They want to frame us,” he said, “because we are telling the truth.”
A Fractured Alliance
Gachagua, once a close ally of President Ruto, was impeached in October last year following a public and bitter fallout. Since then, he has turned into one of the president’s most outspoken critics, accusing the administration of corruption and political intimidation.
His accusations have rattled the political establishment and deepened divisions within Kenya Kwanza, the coalition that brought Ruto to power in 2022. While some members have dismissed Gachagua’s claims as theatrics, others have called for an investigation.
Interior Ministry officials declined to comment on Tuesday, and there was no immediate statement from State House. But a senior security source, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the matter, said there was “no credible threat” against Gachagua and called the claims “politically motivated”.
Mounting Pressure
Observers say Gachagua’s growing support base in central Kenya particularly among youth and local leaders is making Nairobi nervous.
“He speaks to a sense of betrayal that many voters feel,” said political analyst Charles Mwangi. “If the government doesn’t respond clearly and calmly, this could spiral.”
On the ground, the mood was tense. In Karatina town, shops remained shut for much of the morning. Several residents told the media they supported Gachagua’s call for protection, regardless of political allegiance.
“He may not be perfect,” said Grace Wanjiku, a market vendor, “but if someone’s life is in danger, that’s serious. We want answers.”
Others expressed concern about the protests themselves. “Blocking roads only hurts ordinary people,” said Daniel Kariuki, a taxi driver caught in the morning traffic jam. “We need dialogue, not chaos.”
What Next?
With no formal response yet from President Ruto and police maintaining silence, pressure is mounting for the government to address the allegations publicly.
For now, Gachagua says he’s not backing down.
“They want me silent,” he said, “but I will keep speaking, even if it costs me.”
As Kenya heads into another week of political tension, one thing is clear: the rift at the top is no longer just a power struggle it’s becoming personal.
