Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly criticized President William Ruto following the arrest of Mukurweini MP John Kaguchia by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Monday.
Gachagua accused the current administration of misusing the criminal justice system to target political opponents, a strategy he says mirrors practices he previously condemned while serving as deputy president.
Gachagua's Response to Kaguchia's Detention
In a Facebook post, Gachagua described the arrest as characteristic of a "failing government" that suppresses dissent through legal means. He recalled how the previous administration, led by President Uhuru Kenyatta, was notorious for similar tactics ahead of the 2022 General Election.
He highlighted that President Ruto, during his tenure as deputy president, openly criticized these arrests, questioning their effectiveness and the rationale behind them. Gachagua questioned why Ruto has now adopted the same approach, asking, "Has it become more wise?"
Expressing concern over the influence of State House on leadership decisions, Gachagua stated, "I am genuinely concerned about what happens to leaders, their thinking and reasoning, once they occupy State House."
Details of Kaguchia's Arrest
MP John Kaguchia was detained after spending the night at Royal Media Services studios in Nairobi, following his appearance on Inooro TV's Kiririmbi programme. He reportedly refused to leave the premises as armed officers surrounded the building.
The DCI took Kaguchia to their headquarters for questioning over statements deemed to incite violence and threaten President Ruto's supporters ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Gachagua affirmed that legal efforts are underway to secure Kaguchia's release on bond, concluding his statement with the rallying cry, "Aluta continua!"
