Former Kenyan Vice President Rigati Gachagua claims there was an assassination attempt in the church attack

Prominent Kenyan opposition figure Rigathi Gachagua claimed there was an attempt on his life during a church service on Sunday.

Gachagua, who was ousted as vice president in an impeachment trial in 2024, claimed that a gang of rogue police officers attacked a church in Otaya, central Nyeri county, using bullets and tear gas.

Without providing evidence, he accused his former ally President William Ruto of ordering the attack. Ruto has yet to comment, but Home Affairs Minister Kipchuba Mulkomen condemned the violence, calling it unacceptable.

Police said an investigation was launched, adding that no injuries were reported.

Police received reports that tear gas canisters were thrown into St Peter’s Anglican Church at 11:00 local time (08:00 GMT), disrupting services.

Police added that several vehicles were reported to have been damaged inside the church and appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Gachagua, a wealthy businessman from the mountains of central Kenya who is now an outspoken critic of the president, said he was escorted to safety by his security team.

He posted a photo of the incident on He then held a news conference in which he rejected claims by pro-government bloggers that the attack was carefully planned.

“Where can we get tear gas? … Where can we get AK-47 assault rifles?” asked the Civic Democratic leader.

Murkomen said the police chief had assured him that the attackers would be brought to justice.

“Violence is unacceptable anywhere, especially in places of worship.” Home Minister said in X’s post.

“Police must act fearlessly and without favour, and deal decisively with supporters and perpetrators of this act, regardless of their social status or political affiliation.”

Under Kenya’s constitution, Gachagua’s conviction by the Senate means he cannot hold public office again.

He pleaded not guilty to 11 charges and was found guilty on five of them, including inciting racial division and violating his oath of office.

However, the politician, popularly known as Riggy G, Insisting he will run in next year’s presidential election The Supreme Court has yet to rule on his impeachment because he is appealing.

Ruto and Gachagua were elected jointly in 2022, a partnership that helped Ruto win over Mount Kenya, the heartland of Kenya’s largest voting bloc, the Kikuyu people.