The National Police Service has dismissed claims that it intends to arrest Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), as he returns to Kenya.
Speaking to the press on Thursday morning, Inspector General Douglas Kanja described Gachagua’s arrival as an ordinary event, assuring the public that the police would handle him like any other citizen.
“As the police service, we can tell you that Gachagua’s arrival is something ordinary, just like any other Kenyan arriving in the country,” Kanja said.
He further emphasized that the police remain fully in control and any security breaches would be addressed according to the law. “I want to remind you that our mandate is to ensure security in the country, and that all those who break the law will be dealt with per the law. So Gachagua’s arrival is not a strange thing,” he added.
Gachagua is expected to land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Thursday afternoon after a six-week tour in the United States.
The IG’s statement follows a warning from Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who cautioned DCP members against disrupting public order during their leader’s return. Murkomen affirmed that the government is ready to take legal action against anyone attempting to mobilize protests that could disrupt businesses or endanger citizens.
“The last time he was around, there were disruptions in the name of protest. This time round, we are prepared, and the police will protect the citizens of Kenya,” Murkomen said.
In response, the DCP has accused the government of allegedly planning to deploy goons to interfere with Gachagua’s return. Deputy Party Leader Cleophas Malala claimed the scheme was allegedly discussed in meetings between Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and Interior CS Murkomen.
“We have been informed that the Nairobi County Governor and Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen held several meetings and have activated their state-sponsored goons to cause harm to innocent citizens,” Malala alleged.
He further accused political figures, including George Aladwa and Dagoretti North MP Beatrice Elachi, of directing the supposed operation to loot, destroy property, and intimidate citizens.
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