Political tensions in Mt Kenya are escalating, with claims of police misuse and politically motivated transfers linked to the 2027 Kenyan general election. This comes after an incident at ACK Witima Church in Othaya, Nyeri County, where teargas was deployed during a service attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

• Rigathi Gachagua claimed the church incident was a deliberate, State-sanctioned operation.
• The incident occurred on a Sunday, injuring several congregants.
• The political wrangling involves power struggles and realignments ahead of the upcoming 2027 elections.

Political tensions in the Mt Kenya region are escalating, marked by claims of police misuse and politically motivated transfers, following a violent incident at an Othaya church where teargas was deployed during a service attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

• The incident occurred on Sunday at ACK Witima Church in Othaya, Nyeri County.
• Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua claims the church incident was a "deliberate, State-sanctioned operation" involving the police.
• The violence is linked to political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.

The United Opposition has requested a meeting on January 30 with Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja to address what they claim are 24 attacks targeting their leaders and supporters since November 2024. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is cited as the primary victim of these persistent attacks.

• The United Opposition claims 24 attacks have occurred since November 2024, primarily targeting Rigathi Gachagua.
• The letter, signed by DCP Deputy Party leader Cleophas Malala, requests a meeting with Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja on January 30.
• The most recent incident cited was on January 25, 2026, at Witima Anglican Church in Othaya constituency, where Mr. Gachagua's vehicles were reportedly torched and teargas used.
• Key opposition figures expected to attend the meeting include Mr. Gachagua, Martha Karua, Kalonzo Musyoka, Dr. Fred Matiang'i, Eugene Wamalwa, Justin Muturi, and Omingo Magara.