Kanchory warns of dangerous trend in politics after Gachagua’s attack
Former Azimio chief agent Saitabao Ole Kanchory has raised the alarm over what he terms the growing use of armed groups to suppress political and civic freedoms, following the recent attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua during his homecoming.
In a statement on his X account on Friday, August 22, 2025, Kanchory condemned the violence and linked it to a worrying trend that, if left unaddressed, could destabilise the nation.
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“The use of government-sponsored armed groups and militia in the political and civic rights space has emerged as the greatest threat to our nation and nationhood,” the statement read.
Gachagua, who returned to a rousing welcome in Nairobi, was met with chaos along Mombasa Road, where his convoy was attacked by goons.
Kanchory warned that unchecked use of armed gangs in political spaces could plunge the country into crisis.
“If unchecked, this is what will take this country to the precipice, a point of no return,” wrote.
His remarks come amid rising political tension within the ruling coalition and concerns over the resurgence of politically motivated violence.
Kanchory called for immediate investigations into the attack and urged both state and non-state actors to respect the democratic space.
He also challenged Kenyans to remain vigilant and resist any attempts to erode civil liberties under the guise of political rivalry.
“Our democracy is young but precious. We must all work to protect it from forces that seek to rule through fear and force,” he added.
Gachagua’s return
Scores were injured on Thursday, August 21, 2025, as the DCP Party leader’s supporters clashed with armed goons who attempted to disrupt the procession from JKIA.
A group of armed youth attacked the convoy shortly after Gachagua left the airport.
Armed with stones and crude weapons, the goons pelted the DCP leader’s convoy with stones, injuring several people and damaging vehicles.
What was meant to be a triumphant political homecoming for the DCP party leader quickly descended into chaos and violence, disrupting planned celebrations and forcing the cancellation of scheduled stopovers and a rally to address supporters.
Moments after Gachagua’s convoy left the airport, violence erupted. The youth began hurling stones at vehicles in the procession, damaging cars and injuring several people, including leaders and supporters.
