Nyeri County, Kenya – Kenyan Former Interior Cabinet Secretary and Jubilee Party Deputy Leader Dr. Fred Matiang’i has sharply condemned the violent incident that disrupted a church service at Wairima ACK Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, describing it as a dangerous affront to democracy, human rights, and the sanctity of places of worship.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday, reportedly saw former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and congregants exposed to tear gas and live ammunition during a church service, triggering panic and chaos among worshippers.
In a strongly worded statement, Dr. Matiang’i termed the attack a “grave desecration of a sacred place of worship” and a clear violation of fundamental human rights. He warned that such actions point to worrying signs of deteriorating governance and abuse of state power.
“No Kenyan—regardless of political affiliation or belief—should ever face intimidation, violence, or fear while exercising their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and worship,” Matiang’i said, adding that the incident would be “intolerable in any functioning democracy.”
The former Interior CS cautioned against the politicization of security agencies, noting that allowing politicians to deploy state security forces for partisan interests severely undermines the rule of law and poses a direct threat to national stability.
Dr. Matiang’i further emphasized that violence of this nature erodes confidence in state institutions and fuels political polarization, calling for decisive action to prevent further escalation. He urged authorities to uphold professionalism, accountability, and restraint within the security sector.
Reaffirming his commitment to national unity, Matiang’i said Kenya’s progress depends on cross-party collaboration, respect for constitutional freedoms, and the protection of all citizens—especially in spaces meant for peace and reflection.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation across political, religious, and civil society circles, with growing calls for investigations and accountability over the use of force against civilians in a church setting.
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