Murkomen Condemns Church Violence in Othaya, Orders Swift Probe into Gachagua Incident
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has strongly condemned the violent disruption of a church service attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in Othaya, Nyeri County, describing any form of violence—especially inside a place of worship—as completely unacceptable.
The incident occurred during a Sunday morning service at Witima ACK Church, where unidentified individuals, reportedly plain-clothed officers, lobbed tear gas canisters and fired gunshots, causing chaos among worshippers. Gachagua accused President William Ruto of orchestrating an assassination attempt via a "killer squad," claiming the group was trapped inside amid live bullets, tear gas, and torched vehicles.
In a statement issued Sunday evening, Murkomen expressed deep concern over the breach of the church's sanctity and the broader attack on democratic principles. He revealed that he had already spoken with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, directing an immediate and thorough investigation into the matter.
"The police must move without fear or favour and deal decisively with the sponsors and perpetrators of this act without regard to their status in society or political affiliation," Murkomen declared.
He stressed that violence has no place anywhere, "and least of all in a place of worship," while reaffirming the government's unwavering commitment to protecting core democratic rights, including freedom of worship and the right to peaceful assembly.
Murkomen called on residents of Nyeri to remain calm as authorities handle the situation, promising that those responsible would face justice.
The response follows widespread outrage, including condemnation from Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who questioned how plain-clothed individuals accessed police-grade tear gas and warned against politicizing sacred spaces or misusing state institutions.
No arrests have been reported so far, and details of the ongoing probe remain limited.
