Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has condemned the disruption of a prayer meeting led by Pastor Dorcas Gachagua in Nyeri after former Mungiki leader Maina Njenga and his supporters stormed the event.
In a statement on Saturday, January 18, Gachagua described the actions as a blatant attack on a sacred occasion.
The former deputy president called out the use of what he termed outlawed criminal elements to interfere with peaceful worship.
"Unleashing the leader of an outlawed criminal gang and his goons to disrupt peaceful prayers and desecrate the altar, is the lowest any Government can go no matter the level of desperation," he said.
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Earlier in the day, videos circulating online show Njenga arriving at the event with a group of youths, causing enough of a disturbance to temporarily halt the service.
A section of the youth with him was seen occupying the dais meant for the clergymen speaking at the gathering.
Njenga then walked into the tent where Pastor Dorcas was seated, prompting her to move to a different seat before eventually leaving the venue.
Njenga has had a contentious relationship with Gachagua.
The rivalry between Njenga and Gachagua appears to be a struggle for political influence within the Mt. Kenya region, especially following Gachagua's impeachment in October 2024.
Njenga has criticized Gachagua's leadership, particularly regarding economic sectors like coffee and tea production, and has called for unity among residents to support development initiatives.
Additionally, Njenga has publicly declared his support for President William Ruto, urging Mt. Kenya residents to unite behind the President and other elected leaders.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the youth and the government to achieve development goals.
Despite his endorsement, Njenga has denied being Ruto's new point man in the Mt. Kenya region, stating that he aligns himself with the interests of Kenyans and is focused on promoting unity.
“I am aligning with Kenyans. Right now we want unity. I was an Azimio person," he said.
