Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has launched a fresh attack on President William Ruto's administration, alleging that the government is sponsoring criminal gangs to intimidate political opponents and members of the public ahead of the 2027 General Election.
In a lengthy statement released on Thursday, July 2, 2026, Gachagua claimed that the country is experiencing a surge in violence allegedly perpetrated by criminal gangs working alongside rogue police officers.
"Goons! Goons! Goons! Everywhere, it is goons!" Gachagua said.
The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader alleged that incidents reported in Mwiki, Kariobangi, Witima, Ol Kalou, Kisii, Thika Road and other parts of the country were evidence of what he termed a state-sponsored militia.
He accused the government of abandoning its constitutional responsibility to protect citizens and instead using criminal groups to suppress political dissent.
"The Government that swore on the Bible and in the name of God to protect life and property is now hurting them," he claimed.
Gachagua further alleged that some of the individuals involved in the attacks were operating alongside police officers and enjoying state protection.
He also criticised the Inspector General of Police, claiming the police chief had lost control of the National Police Service and was unaware of operations allegedly being conducted by rogue officers.
The former deputy president linked the deployment of Kenyan police officers to the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti to the government's handling of domestic security, alleging that lessons from the mission were being replicated locally. He did not provide evidence to support the claim.
Gachagua further alleged that officers involved in previous attacks on opposition activities had not been held accountable and claimed that some had instead been rewarded.
He also claimed that individuals linked to recent confrontations in Ol Kalou remained in the area ahead of the constituency's upcoming parliamentary by-election.
The former deputy president argued that the alleged insecurity was damaging Kenya's reputation internationally and discouraging investors and tourists from visiting the country.
He concluded by urging Kenyans to pursue political change through the ballot in the 2027 General Election.
The government has previously rejected similar allegations by Gachagua, maintaining that security agencies operate within the law and denying claims that state institutions are sponsoring criminal gangs or political violence.
