Gachagua, Kihika Clash Over Opposition Tour Of Nakuru
Governor Kihika said Nakuru was open to all leaders regardless of political affiliation, but warned that incitement, intolerance, or ethnic hostility would not be tolerated in the county, which she described as cosmopolitan.
By Our Correspondent
A sharp political standoff and war of words has emerged between former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika over a planned tour by the opposition brigade across Nakuru County.
The dispute centres on claims by Gachagua that goons and local police were mobilised to disrupt the tour, allegations the governor has dismissed as false and politically motivated.
Gachagua accused Governor Kihika and her spouse, businessman Sam Mburu, of influencing police operations to block the United Opposition activities in parts of Nakuru County.
He said police actions contradicted assurances given earlier by the Inspector General that the National Police Service would remain apolitical and safeguard constitutional freedoms.
“You assured us the police would respect freedom of movement and assembly and would not disrupt public meetings,” Gachagua said, referring to a meeting held with national leaders.
He alleged that those assurances collapsed during his attempted entry into Nakuru via Nyandarua, claiming police mounted a roadblock at Karati River to stop his convoy.
The former DP further claimed officers from Naivasha harassed members of the public for more than an hour, withdrawing only after crowds gathered and protested the blockade.
He accused the local police command of acting under external political influence linked to business interests allied to President William Ruto, an allegation not independently verified.
Governor Kihika strongly rejected the claims, accusing the former deputy president of exaggeration and using security agencies to deflect from a personal dispute.
“Mr Gachagua is crying wolf. This is about a business deal gone sour, not a political tour,” Kihika said accusing him of attacking my family instead of outlining any agenda for Kenyans.
She accused Gachagua of repeatedly dragging her spouse into political attacks and claimed his recent speech in Naivasha focused more on insults than policy proposals.
Governor Kihika said Nakuru was open to all leaders regardless of political affiliation, but warned that incitement, intolerance, or ethnic hostility would not be tolerated in the county, which she described as cosmopolitan.
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