Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua openly challenged Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to act on repeated arrest threats during a rally held in Embu County on July 25, 2026.
Addressing a large crowd, Gachagua questioned why the government had not followed through on warnings made over the past year concerning his alleged divisive political statements. He urged Murkomen to either arrest him or stop issuing threats.
"If you are a man, arrest Riggy G and take him to the cell. You have been threatening me for the past year. What are you waiting for? Try arresting me and you will face these residents of Mt. Kenya," Gachagua declared, invoking the support of the Mt. Kenya community.
Background to the Standoff
The confrontation arose after Gachagua made remarks about protecting votes from the Mt. Kenya region, which Murkomen condemned as divisive and warned could lead to his arrest. The Interior CS cited concerns that such rhetoric threatened national cohesion.
Gachagua, who leads the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), dismissed these warnings as attempts at political intimidation and used the Embu event to deliver his firmest response yet.
Calls for Regional Unity
Beyond the clash with Murkomen, Gachagua emphasized the importance of unity among Mt. Kenya residents. He thanked supporters for their solidarity and underscored the need to work together to build a better Kenya.
- "Our unity is our greatest strength. We must cherish and protect our togetherness as we move forward united," he said.
- "Our resolve for a better Kenya remains resolute, and no amount of distraction will deter us from that commitment," he added.
Gachagua was impeached as deputy president in October 2024 following a parliamentary vote citing gross constitutional violations and abuse of office.
