The National Police Service (NPS) has urged Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua to file a formal complaint. This follows the January 25 incident at ACK Witima in Othaya, Nyeri County. Officers and unidentified assailants attacked worshippers inside the church. Footage circulating online shows attackers firing live bullets, throwing stones, and lobbing tear gas canisters. Police officers in an official vehicle appeared to provide cover during the assault.
In a statement dated February 15, NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyagah said the speed of investigations depends on formal complaints, witness accounts, and public cooperation. Officers began preliminary inquiries using public information but stressed that affected persons must provide official statements. “Officers have recorded statements, reviewed footage, and analysed intelligence to establish circumstances and identify suspects. Mr Nyagah said that people must cooperate to ensure the authorities demonstrably uphold justice. He reiterated the police commitment to impartiality, professionalism, and rule of law.
The Political Fallout
Handlers evacuated Mr Gachagua, who attended the service, as attackers damaged vehicles in his entourage. He called the incident an assassination attempt. Despite condemnation from Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen, and Inspector General Douglas Kanja, authorities have made no arrests three weeks later. Central Region Commissioner Joshua Nkanatha said the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (Ipoa) will investigate, instead of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations
Ipoa’s mandate covers police misconduct but does not include crimes involving civilians. Mr Gachagua dismissed this as “chaotic logic aimed at covering up the attack” and an affront to religious freedom. He alleged political involvement by figures allied to President William Ruto.
Advocate Ndegwa Njiru warned that the attack could be perceived as staged by police, assisted by civilians and politicians. He said preliminary evidence points to political actors among the attackers. The incident highlights tensions between civilians, law enforcement, and political power in Kenya. It shows how governance gaps, lack of accountability, and political influence can jeopardize public safety and civic rights. As investigations continue, transparency and accountability remain crucial. Civil society groups have urged the police and oversight bodies to ensure the attack is thoroughly investigated. Only then can trust between civilians, law enforcement, and political institutions be restored.
