Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua declared on Monday that the government has withdrawn his personal security detail, warning that his safety is now in jeopardy. Gachagua framed the move as a politically motivated act aimed at undermining his influence, particularly within the influential Mt Kenya voting bloc.
Speaking publicly, Gachagua insisted the decision was both unjustified and dangerous. “I want to tell the people of Kenya that Rigathi Gachagua is not safe. The government withdrew security from him despite his senior status in the country,” he stated.
He argued that his political stature and nationwide support still warrant state protection. “Despite the fact that he was removed from office, he commands a serious following, millions of Kenyans are behind him, hence he is a senior leader who deserves protection because of his seniority in public service and his key role in determining the next presidential election,” Gachagua said.
A "Political Fallout" Over Mt Kenya
Gachagua directly linked the withdrawal to what he termed a “political fallout” with the current administration and disagreements regarding the Mt Kenya region. He alleged it is a deliberate strategy to weaken his political influence ahead of future elections.
According to the former Deputy President, the alleged plan involves sowing division within the Mt Kenya bloc to dilute its collective voting power. “Gachagua claimed the plan is 'to divide the mountain between Mt Kenya East and Mt Kenya West and sometimes telling Kiambu to get out of the mountain,'” he said, referencing the political stronghold.
He asserted that his activities in the region, which he describes as efforts to promote unity, have made him a specific target. Gachagua insisted that restoring his security is necessary not only for his personal safety but also as a recognition of his continued role in national politics.
Contrasting Scene: Celebrity Frenzy in Nairobi CBD
The political drama unfolded against a contrasting backdrop in the nation's capital. On Sunday, American content creator and streamer IShowSpeed caused a stir in Nairobi’s Central Business District as hundreds of fans mobbed his convoy during an impromptu visit.
The streamer received an enthusiastic welcome, with boda boda riders and cars trailing him, and crowds darting across streets and sidewalks to catch a glimpse or record videos. The brief stopover temporarily disrupted activity in parts of the CBD, highlighting the growing interest in Kenya among global digital celebrities with massive online audiences.
The event underscored a vibrant, youthful engagement with international pop culture, occurring just as a former second-in-command raised alarms about his security in the realm of domestic political rivalry.
National Implications
Gachagua’s allegations point to deepening tensions within Kenya’s political landscape, especially concerning the strategically vital Mt Kenya region. His claims of being targeted for fostering unity suggest an ongoing battle for control and influence within the bloc that could significantly impact the nation’s political trajectory.
As of now, there has been no official public response from the government regarding Gachagua’s specific security details or his accusations of a divisive political strategy.