Wamuzi News Ke
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a chilling warning to Kenyans, claiming he had previously cautioned that protesters could be killed in Nairobi—remarks he views as vindicated following the shooting of an unarmed mask vendor during #JusticeForOjwang demonstrations.
“I Told You So” – Gachagua Speaks Out
Addressing a crowd in Kilifi on Sunday, June 8, Gachagua stated that he warned of a sinister plot involving top officials, President Ruto and Governor Sakaja, allegedly preparing to deploy goons and police to eliminate young protesters.
Now, after the harrowing video of a mask hawker—identified as Eli—being shot at point-blank range by police in Nairobi’s CBD, Gachagua insisted this validates his earlier concerns.
“What is the logic behind shooting an innocent and harmless hawker selling masks at close range? What police training is this?”
Accusations Fly: Pariah State, Political Violence
Gachagua didn’t hold back:
- He condemned the systemic deployment of “thugs” and undercover squads masquerading as police .
- Warned that Kenya risks becoming a “pariah state”, isolated for abusing its citizens under the guise of law enforcement.
What Provoked This Outburst?
- Heightened national alarm over the death in custody of Albert Ojwang, allegedly tortured to death by police, which ignited mass protests.
- In the midst of protests, a face-mask hawker was shot at close range, triggering public outrage and calls for swift action—Gachagua’s warning is gaining traction.
Why This Matters — A Turning Point?
| Key Issue | Implication |
|---|---|
| Accountability | Gachagua’s public allegations escalate demands for transparent police reform |
| Government image | Accusations of orchestrated violence threaten the legitimacy of Ruto and Sakaja |
| Upcoming protests | Gachagua’s forecast warns of intensified state reprisals in future demonstrations |
The Road Ahead
- Probe and prosecutions: Civil society is calling for investigations into both the mask hawker’s shooting and the alleged plot Gachagua exposed.
- Heightened vigilance: Opposition figures and Gen Z leaders are bracing for possible crackdowns ahead of planned rallies on June 25.
- Polarization intensifies: Gachagua’s claims may deepen political divides and fuel a narrative of state-sponsored violence against dissent.
This explosive claim from Kenya’s former No. 2 in command adds a volatile new dimension to the ongoing outrage over police conduct. With protests still spreading and investigations beginning, today’s revelations could mark a critical flashpoint in Kenya’s fight for justice.
