Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is set to storm back into Othaya, Nyeri County, this weekend, defying what he claims was a state-sponsored assassination attempt just days ago. The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader has vowed that neither tear gas nor "live bullets" will silence his resolve to commune with his base.

The political temperature in Mt. Kenya has reached a fever pitch following the chaos at Witima ACK Church on Sunday, January 25.What was meant to be a service turned into a war zone when police officers allegedly lobbed tear gas into the sanctuary, forcing clergy and congregants—including Gachagua—to flee for their lives. The former DP has since described the incident as the work of a "Police Sierra" unit sent to eliminate him.

"We Will Not Be Intimidated"

Opposition leaders, including Kalonzo Musyoka and Martha Karua, have rallied behind Gachagua, issuing a strict ultimatum to the government. "If the officers responsible are not arrested by February 16, we will call for nationwide demonstrations," Gachagua declared at a Wakulima Market address. He framed his return to Othaya not just as a political rally, but as a spiritual reclamation of the church from state violence.

A Pattern of Violence?

The Witima incident is not isolated. It follows a disturbing trend of disruptions at opposition events:

• Limuru (Nov 2024): Gachagua’s convoy pelted with stones by suspected gangs.
• Nyandarua (Dec 2024): Tear gas canisters fired at a public engagement.
• The "Sierra" Allegation: Gachagua claims a covert hit squad is tracking his movements, a charge the police service has yet to substantively address beyond standard denials.

As the former DP prepares to return to the scene of the chaos, the National Police Service is under intense scrutiny. Will they facilitate his right to assembly, or will Othaya once again be choked by the smoke of tear gas? The nation watches with bated breath.