Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga on Sunday strongly condemned the teargassing incident that disrupted a church service at Witima in Othaya Constituency during a visit by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, Governor Kahiga described the incident as atrocious, uncalled for, and unacceptable in a democratic society.
The governor said Rigathi Gachagua enjoys full constitutional rights to move freely across the country, attend any place of worship, and associate with anyone without fear of intimidation or violence.
He added that what happened at the church violated these freedoms and disrespected the sanctity of a place of worship.
“The use of teargas in a church, especially where women and children were present, is indefensible,” Kahiga said. He warned that such actions portray the government as intolerant and risk eroding public trust in state institutions.
Kahiga questioned how security agencies could justify deploying teargas inside a church, stressing that political differences should never be handled through violence or intimidation.
He called on authorities to uphold human rights and the rule of law, regardless of political affiliations.
The Nyeri governor urged residents of the county and Kenyans nationwide to remain calm and avoid retaliation, saying peace and unity must come before political rivalry.
“Elections will come and go, including those of 2027, but our country must remain,” he said, calling for patience and national cohesion during the current period of political tension.
He also addressed concerns about his absence from the church service, clarifying that neither the church nor the Office of the Former Deputy President had invited him.
Kahiga reaffirmed his commitment to dialogue, peace, and the protection of constitutional freedoms for all Kenyans.
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Politics