Deputy President and Democratic Party of Citizens (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has criticized the arrest of Mukurwe-ini MP John Kaguchia, calling it an attempt to intimidate political opponents through misuse of the criminal justice system.
In a statement released on Monday, Gachagua condemned the selective enforcement of the law, describing it as a strategy employed by "outgoing, cowardly regimes" that ultimately backfires.
Political Context
Gachagua drew comparisons to the period before the 2022 General Election when President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration allegedly used legal mechanisms to suppress dissent and coerce support for a then-unpopular candidate. He pointed out that William Ruto, who was Deputy President at the time, had openly criticized such arrests.
"Now, as President, he is doing exactly what he called foolish in the past. Has it become more wise?" Gachagua questioned.
Impact of Kaguchia's Arrest
The DCP leader argued that Kaguchia’s detention would only strengthen opposition resolve and elevate the MP’s standing within the party. Kaguchia was apprehended by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) after spending the night at Royal Media Services (RMS) following his appearance on Inooro TV's Kiririmbi show on Sunday.
Earlier, Kaguchia claimed that hooded men were waiting to detain him outside the RMS offices, prompting him to seek refuge there. He is currently held at the DCI headquarters on Kiambu Road and is expected to appear in court on Tuesday.
Legal Efforts
Gachagua confirmed that lawyers representing Kaguchia are working to secure his release on bond ahead of the court hearing.
