(ELGEYO MARAKWET COUNTY, KENYA) – Deputy Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua is facing the prospect of arrest after senior government officials demanded he record a statement with security agencies over terrorism allegations he made while in the United States.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof Kithure Kindiki and Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said Gachagua must account for his remarks as soon as he returns to the country, describing them as a threat to national security.
Speaking during a women and bodaboda empowerment event at Sitotwo Primary School in Elgeyo Marakwet County, the two leaders criticised Gachagua’s comments on terrorism, calling them unpatriotic and dangerous to Kenya’s safety.
“We have no problem with Kenyans travelling abroad, but they must remain patriotic. Governments come and go, but Kenya will remain. Those insulting the head of state should not use that opportunity to endanger the nation’s security,” said Prof Kindiki.
He insisted Gachagua must record a statement immediately upon arrival. “If he has any information on terrorism, he must be held accountable. We cannot take security matters lightly,” he said.
CS Murkomen echoed the call, stressing that Gachagua must take responsibility for his words. “We are waiting for him to record a statement regarding his terrorism claims. As soon as he lands from America, he must explain what he knows about Al-Shabaab and other terrorist activities,” Murkomen stated.
Murkomen expressed disappointment at Gachagua for publicly revealing security-related matters while abroad, saying such actions were unacceptable.
Their stance was supported by Elgeyo Marakwet leaders, including Woman Representative Caroline Ng’elechei, Keiyo South MP Gideon Kimaiyo, Keiyo North MP Adams Kipsanai, and Marakwet East MP Kangogo Bowen.
Prof Kindiki also used the event to urge Kenyans to ignore those criticising President William Ruto’s development record, claiming the Kenya Kwanza administration had achieved a great deal in under three years.
“The President has delivered major projects nationwide. His opponents should state what better plans they have for Kenyans,” Kindiki said, calling on the public to grant Ruto a second term to complete and expand his government’s development agenda.
He praised CS Murkomen’s leadership in addressing cattle rustling and crime in the Kerio Valley, noting that during his own tenure in the Interior Ministry, significant progress had been made towards restoring peace in Baringo and Kerio Valley.
Kindiki added that the government had already invested in modern security equipment to boost the capacity of law enforcement officers. “Peace has begun returning to Kerio Valley, and now it is time for development. The government is committed to delivering roads, water, electricity, markets, schools, and hospitals,” he said.