Gachagua dares DCI to arrest him over fuel scandal claims

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has openly challenged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to arrest him, escalating a simmering standoff over his claims surrounding an alleged fuel scandal.

Speaking during a roadside rally in Gatundu North, Kiambu County, Gachagua adopted a defiant tone, insisting he would not be intimidated by what he described as threats from investigators. He maintained that his earlier remarks linking the fuel controversy to alleged business rivalries were based on information available to him.

Gachagua accused the DCI of attempting to silence him, even as he vowed to continue speaking out and potentially reveal more details related to the matter. “If you want to arrest me, come and arrest me and see what will follow,” he said, signalling his readiness to face any legal action.

At the centre of the dispute are claims made by the former Deputy President regarding alleged conflicts involving key players in the energy sector, including assertions about missing exhibits tied to the ongoing investigations. The remarks have since drawn a sharp response from the DCI, which has dismissed the allegations as baseless.

In his address, Gachagua also shifted focus to what he termed as selective enforcement of the law. He demanded that authorities first act against individuals he accused of attacking him and his supporters during several public events.

He cited incidents in Limuru, Mwiki, Kariobangi, and Witima, where he claimed there were disruptions and assaults targeting his supporters. According to him, those responsible should be arrested and prosecuted before any action is taken against him.

The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader further argued that attempts to question or summon him amounted to an infringement of his constitutional right to freedom of expression. He insisted that he would continue raising issues affecting Kenyans, particularly on matters related to corruption and governance.

“I will not be intimidated. If there is wrongdoing, I will speak about it,” he stated, hinting that more revelations could be forthcoming.

On its part, the DCI has rejected Gachagua’s claims, terming them as false and lacking any factual basis. The agency said the remarks risk undermining public confidence in law enforcement institutions.

Authorities have also indicated that they are reviewing his statements to determine whether they could amount to offences under laws governing incitement, hate speech, and national cohesion.

The unfolding standoff now adds a new dimension to the broader debate on accountability, political rivalry, and freedom of speech in the country.