Kindiki Denies Staff Involvement in Othaya Church Attack

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has rejected claims by Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua that one of his bodyguards was involved in the attack during a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County, on Sunday, January 25.

In a statement on Monday, January 26, posted on X, Kindiki said the individual shown in a widely circulated photo is not known to him and is not part of his security team.

“The image you have circulated is not of any officer or staff attached to me. I don’t know who that is. I know you are desperate to link me to the criminal act that happened yesterday, but this is not where to find me,” he wrote.

Kindiki condemned all acts of political violence, stressing that he has consistently opposed the use of force in politics, regardless of the community involved. He said his approach relies on dialogue, persuasion, logical reasoning, and building consensus, not persecution or intimidation.

“I have condemned and will continue to condemn the use of violence in politics, whether by notam, haftam, wantam or tutam people. I don’t use violence to do politics—I rely on logic, persuasion, and consensus,” he added.

The DP also warned against escalating political tensions, calling on authorities to identify and punish those who organise or sponsor violence before further harm is caused to the country.

Kindiki’s response came hours after Gachagua alleged that a staff member linked to the deputy president’s office was among those who attacked the ACK Witima Church. Gachagua shared a photo of the alleged officer on social media, suggesting Kindiki could have been behind the attack.

On Sunday, violence erupted at the church while Gachagua attended a service alongside other opposition politicians. Witnesses said people believed to be police officers fired tear gas into the church, forcing congregants, including children, to flee for safety.