Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has returned to Ishiara Town in Mbeere North, reviving calls for justice for two young men who died following protests over unfulfilled government promises.
The deaths occurred barely a month after the Mbeere North by-election, during which political leaders made a raft of pledges to residents, including commitments to improve services and infrastructure in the area.
“Sadly, just a month later, two young men tragically lost their lives through police brutality for asking for government services,” Mr Gachagua said during his return to Ishiara, accusing the former regime of failing to honour promises made during the campaign.
The two men died after residents took to the streets to demand the fulfilment of development promises made during the by-election campaign. The protests were fuelled by frustration over the poor state of roads and other services in the area.
Police moved to disperse the protesters, resulting in confrontations in which the two young men lost their lives. Their deaths subsequently triggered anger among residents, with political leaders accusing the police of using excessive force.
Mr Gachagua used the incident to renew his criticism of the Kenya Kwanza administration, portraying the deaths as evidence of what he described as broken promises and poor governance.
“It is heartbreaking to witness such loss,” he said. “We vow to change the structures of governance and, once in office, our government will seek justice for these two young souls.”
The former Deputy President's return to Ishiara comes as he steps up his political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 General Election, with the deaths providing fresh ammunition for his criticism of President William Ruto's administration.
Mr Gachagua said the events in Ishiara demonstrated the consequences of what he described as a government that had failed to listen to citizens after seeking their votes.
His remarks also sought to turn the deaths into a broader political question over accountability, police conduct and the government's responsibility to deliver on campaign promises.
“We vow to change the structures of governance and, once in office, our government will seek justice for these two young souls,” Mr Gachagua said.
The former Deputy President thanked residents for supporting his political campaign and pledged that the issues raised in Ishiara would remain part of his push for changes in governance.
“Asanteni sana, Ishiara, Mbeere North for listening to us. God bless you!” he said.
