Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has condemned the arrest of Mukurwe-ini MP John Kaguchia, accusing the government of using the criminal justice system to intimidate political opponents.
In a statement issued on Monday, Gachagua argued that employing law enforcement agencies to settle political disputes had failed in previous administrations and would not succeed against the opposition.
“The use of the criminal justice system to manage politics is synonymous with outgoing, cowardly regimes. The selective application of the law is counterproductive,” he said.
The former DP drew comparisons with the period preceding the 2022 General Election, claiming that former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration used arrests and prosecutions to suppress dissent and pressure Kenyans into supporting an unpopular presidential candidate.
Gachagua noted that President Ruto, who served as DP at the time, had publicly criticised the arrests and questioned the government’s approach.
ALSO READ:
- Ngunjiri Slams Gachagua Over Kaguchia’s Arrest
- Mudavadi Urges Kenyans to Reject Ethnic Politics Ahead of 2027 Election
“As President, he is doing exactly what he said at the time was foolish. Has it become more wise?” Gachagua posed.
He further claimed that Kaguchia’s arrest would strengthen rather than weaken the opposition, saying the move would rally supporters around the legislator.
“The overnight harassment and early morning arrest of Hon. John Kaguchia today only strengthen the resolve of our supporters and elevate his standing within our leadership hierarchy,” he added.
MP Arrested After TV Interview
According to available information, Kaguchia was arrested by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) at the Royal Media Services (RMS) premises after appearing on Inooro TV’s Kiririmbi programme on Sunday night.
The MP reportedly spent the night at the media house after alleging. that unidentified hooded men were waiting outside to arrest him once he left the premises.
The arrest follows controversial remarks Kaguchia made during a public meeting in Kieni, Nyeri County, on Saturday. Speaking in Kikuyu, the legislator claimed that individuals who vote for President Ruto in the 2027 General Election would be identified, tracked to their homes and smoked out.
His remarks sparked criticism and prompted investigations by security agencies.
Expected Court Appearance
Gachagua said lawyers representing the Mukurwe-ini MP were working to secure his release on bond ahead of his anticipated court appearance on Tuesday.
Kaguchia is currently being held at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations headquarters along Kiambu Road as investigations continue.
