Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) deputy party leader Cleophas Malala has taken issue with President William Ruto’s silence following the attack at Othaya ACK Church in Nyeri County, where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua had gone to attend a church service.
Speaking during an interview on a local radio station on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, Malala said it was concerning that the Head of State had yet to comment on the incident, despite its seriousness and the public outcry that followed.
Malala argued that the President’s silence appears intentional, noting that President Ruto is widely known for responding quickly and openly to political and national issues.
According to Malala, the incident at the church was severe and traumatic, involving vulnerable congregants and clergy who were caught up in the chaos.
“Children were suffocating. Clergy were desperate at the altar, and the president, 72 hours down the line, has said nothing,” Malala said.
He further questioned why the President, whom he described as highly vocal and responsive in most situations, had chosen not to address the incident.
“You know very well our president is a talking machine; he responds to everybody who even tries to challenge him. He is the master of ceremonies at NYOTA functions,” Malala remarked.
The DCP deputy leader expressed disappointment that while the incident continues to be widely discussed by political leaders and the public, the Head of State has remained silent.
Malala’s comments add to growing pressure on the presidency to address the incident, as debates around political intolerance, security, and leadership responsibility continue to dominate national discourse.
