The National Police Service (NPS) has dismissed allegations suggesting that police were preparing to arrest former Deputy President and Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader, Rigathi Gachagua, upon his return to Kenya.
Addressing journalists on Thursday morning, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja clarified that Gachagua’s homecoming was an “ordinary event,” assuring Kenyans that he would be treated like any other citizen.
“Our mandate is to ensure security in the country, and all those who break the law will be dealt with according to the law. Gachagua’s arrival is not unusual, and the police service is in full control,” Kanja stated.
He further emphasized that while Gachagua enjoyed the same rights as any other Kenyan, he was not above the law. Should any credible reports implicate him in unlawful activities, the police would not hesitate to take action.
Gachagua, who has been on a six-week political and business tour of the United States, is expected to land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi later this afternoon.
The IG’s statement followed remarks by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who earlier cautioned DCP members against disrupting public order during their leader’s arrival. Murkomen warned that the government would crack down on any attempt to mobilize protests or interfere with business activities in Nairobi.
“The last time he was around, there were disruptions in the name of protests. This time, we are prepared, and the police will protect citizens and their property,” Murkomen asserted.
However, DCP officials countered the government’s narrative, accusing state agencies of planning chaos.
Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala alleged that Interior CS Murkomen, alongside Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, had convened secret meetings to deploy hired goons to disrupt the procession.
“We have been informed that these state-sponsored groups, working with other political figures, intend to cause destruction, loot businesses, and harm innocent citizens. This is a deliberate attempt to discredit our peaceful reception plans,” Malala told reporters.
The escalating war of words has heightened political tensions ahead of Gachagua’s return, with both government and opposition camps trading accusations over possible unrest.
Security agencies have assured Nairobi residents and travelers passing through JKIA that safety measures have been put in place. NPS reiterated its readiness to respond to any incident, urging Kenyans to go about their daily activities without fear.
Gachagua’s arrival is expected to draw large crowds of his supporters, eager to welcome him back after his extended stay abroad, as the political landscape continues to heat up ahead of the next election cycle.
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