Governor Mutai calls for Gachagua arrest

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua during the unveiling of his new party, Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) in Nairobi on May 15, 2025. [Collins oduor, Standard]

Kericho Governor Erick Mutai has called for the arrest of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his warning of possible chaos if the 2027 General Election was rigged.

Speaking at Kapkisiara African Gospel Church in Bureti Constituency, Mutai said Gachagua's utterances were reckless, dangerous, and a direct threat to the country's peace and democracy.

In an interview with an online TV, Gachagua said that the 2007/08 post-election violence would be a child's play compared to what could happen in 2027 if the polls are rigged.

Yesterday, Gachagua said it was his canonical responsibility as a leader to raise a red flag about the possible chaos in the country and that as a country, we must learn from the past mistakes.

Gachagua's remarks have elicited sharp reactions from leaders allied to the government and his political allies, accusing him of using the country's sad history for his political expediency.

Yesterday, Governor Mutai urged Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to act swiftly and hold Gachagua accountable before his incitement causes unrest.

"We cannot allow any leader, regardless of their status, to threaten the stability of our country. The law must take its course. Mr Gachagua must be arrested and prosecuted for attempting to incite violence ahead of the 2027 elections," said Mutai.

Mutai said he never knew that the former Deputy President could be a prophet of doom and doesn't wish well for this nation.

"It's very reckless for any leader to declare such. Every leader must be sensitive in every statement that they make," he added.

The Kericho Governor also reminded Gachagua that he was the architect of his downfall, which led to his impeachment as the Deputy President, and should cease trying to mislead and incite Kenyans against the government.

Kipkelion East MP Joseph Cherorot echoed the governor's sentiments, noting that Gachagua's actions and words are consistent with a pattern of political intolerance.

He cited the violent incidents that marred the recent launch of the Democracy for Citizens Party as further evidence of Gachagua's alleged inclination toward violence.

"We have already witnessed chaos during the launch of his party. It is clear that Gachagua is not committed to peaceful democratic competition," said Cherorot.

Kericho Woman Representative Beatrice Kemei described Gachagua's new political outfit, DCP, as a project dead on arrival.

"His efforts to unseat President Ruto are bound to fail as he is relying on a coalition of disgruntled individuals who have nothing to offer the country," she said.