Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, Kipchumba Murkomen, has announced the immediate launch of police investigations following a chaotic church service at Witima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, which saw teargas deployed during former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s attendance.
In a statement on Facebook on Sunday, December 25, 2026, Murkomen said he had noted the incident with great concern, emphasising that violence anywhere, and least of all in a place of worship, is unacceptable.
He added that he had spoken with Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, who assured him that investigations are underway with urgency and that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.
Murkomen urged law enforcement to act without fear or favour and called on the public to remain calm while authorities address the matter. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the right to lawful assembly and freedom of worship.
“I have spoken with the Inspector General of Police, Mr Douglas Kanja, who has assured me that investigations are underway with the urgency this matter deserves and that the perpetrators will be brought to justice.” He wrote.
Gachagua claims state attack
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua described the incident as an attack on himself and worshippers. He claimed that the police and state-sponsored groups were responsible, claiming that live bullets were fired and his vehicles were vandalised during the disruption.
“We are marooned in church, being attacked with live bullets and tear gas, and my vehicles have been torched. We ask Kenyans to pray for us to come out alive,” Gachagua said in a social media post.
Videos from the church show congregants fleeing the building, while some were seen praying and wailing amid the chaos. Women and children were affected, and a young girl fainted as others rushed to assist her. The disruption temporarily halted the service, causing distress to the congregation.
The Othaya incident is the latest in a series of confrontations where tear gas was deployed to disperse crowds. Past events, including rallies and church services in Kiambu, Nakuru, and Murang’a counties, have similarly disrupted worshippers and political supporters, prompting debate about the need to protect citizens’ constitutional rights to worship, assemble, and mourn peacefully.
However, Gachagua managed to escape and issued an update to his followers confirming his safety.
