The arrest of MP John Kaguchia has drawn sharp criticism from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who says the move risks blurring the line between law enforcement and political contest.
In a strongly worded statement, Gachagua accused the authorities of using the criminal justice system to settle political scores.
“The use of the criminal justice system to manage politics is synonymous with outgoing, cowardly regimes,” he said.
His remarks come amid growing concern in parts of the political class over how dissent is handled. Hon. Gachagua argued that selective application of the law undermines public trust and, in the long run, weakens institutions.
“The selective application of the law is counterproductive,” he added.
Drawing on Kenya’s recent political history, he pointed to what he described as similar tactics under a previous administration. According to him, attempts to suppress dissent through arrests often had the opposite effect. “The more they did it, the more people became hardened, and their resolve grew stronger,” he said.
Gachagua also invoked President William Ruto’s past remarks when he served as Deputy President, recalling that he had once questioned the wisdom of such actions. Now, he suggested, the roles appear reversed.
“As President, he is doing exactly what he said at the time was foolish. Has it become more wise?” Gachagua asked.
He said the early morning arrest of Hon. Kaguchia would likely elevate the lawmaker’s standing among supporters rather than diminish it. Legal teams, he added, were working to secure Hon. Kaguchia’s release on bond ahead of his court appearance.
Authorities have yet to publicly respond to Hon. Gachagua’s claims. It remains unclear what specific charges Hon. Kaguchia faces, though officials have previously maintained that all arrests are carried out within the law and without political bias.
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