Kenya’s former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has raised alarm over alleged state surveillance and harassment. Security agents in unmarked cars have reportedly been trailing him wherever he goes. These actions, Gachagua says, echo the dark days of the ‘Special Branch’ during the former President Daniel Moi’s era, a time notorious for extrajudicial killings and intimidation of dissenting voices.
“This surveillance and intimidation of Kenyans was last witnessed during the era of the dreaded ‘Special Branch’ during the 24 years of Moi’s misrule!” Gachagua said.
Why Are Security Agents Trailing Rigathi Gachagua’s Every Move?
Rigathi Gachagua claims these agents often park at the entrance of his Nairobi residence, monitoring his visitors and trailing him on his outings.
“Last Sunday, an unmarked saloon car parked outside my residence followed me to PCEA Kerarapon Church, then to lunch, and back home,” he revealed. Upon investigating the car’s number plate through the NTSA portal, Gachagua discovered it was registered to a lorry, raising suspicions about the vehicle and its intention.
These incidents have prompted the former Deputy President to demand answers. He insists the state should be held accountable if any harm comes his way.
“In this era of extrajudicial killings, forced abductions and disappearances by state agents, I have thought it important to share with Kenyans the harassment and intimidation I am going through, and inform them to hold the state responsible if I am harmed by state agents.” He said in a Facebook post.
Gachagua further pleaded with the state led security agencies to let him enjoy life in peace as a private citizen. “You hounded me out of office. Let me enjoy my peace as a private citizen,” he added.
Gachagua’s Political Journey
Rigathi Gachagua’s political journey took a sharp turn when he was impeached by both houses of Parliament in a dramatic move. His tenure as Deputy President ended when Prof. Kithure Kindiki replaced him. Allegations of tribalism and abuse of office dominated his impeachment proceedings, but Gachagua maintains he was unfairly targeted by political rivals.
Since leaving office, Rigathi Gachagua has fairly stayed out of the public eye, with many left speculating his next political move. However, this alleged harassment has forced him to break his silence. He believes these actions aim to intimidate him and warns of a return to an era when state power was wielded to silence opposition.
