Moses Kuria Walks Out of Burial Ceremony, Accuses Rigathi Gachagua of Orchestrating Violence
Tensions flared at a funeral service attended by senior political figures after Chama Cha Kazi party leader Moses Kuria dramatically stormed out, accusing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of plotting chaos and political violence.
The incident occurred on Saturday, January 3, in Makomboki, where leaders had gathered to mourn Alice Wangari Gakuya, the mother of Embakasi North MP James Gakuya. The burial was led by Gachagua, who was joined by several allies and political supporters.
However, what began as a solemn ceremony quickly descended into controversy after Kuria claimed he had received intelligence suggesting there were plans to attack leaders perceived to be opposed to Gachagua.
Kuria alleges plot to unleash violence
In a strongly worded statement shared on social media shortly after leaving the event, the former Trade Cabinet Secretary said he chose to exit the ceremony after learning of what he described as an orchestrated plan to provoke violence.
“I have just left Makomboki, where I had gone to condole with Hon. James Gakuya as we laid to rest his dear mum, Alice Wangari Gakuya. I left when I learnt of a plot to cause violence against those perceived to be opposed to Rigathi Gachagua,” Kuria said.
Kuria further expressed shock after learning that Lamu Woman Representative Monicah Muthoni Marubu had allegedly been assaulted during the chaos, following chants of “tutam”—a phrase commonly associated with political confrontation.
“What I did not know is they could go to the extent of assaulting a woman – Lamu Women Rep Muthoni Marubu,” he added.
“You have crossed the red line”
The outspoken politician went on to issue one of his harshest public attacks yet on the former Deputy President, accusing him of dangerous political conduct and drawing historical comparisons with Kenya’s past leaders.
“I have asked before whether Jomo Kenyatta, Mwai Kibaki or Uhuru Kenyatta could order violence against women,” Kuria stated.
Escalating his remarks, Kuria declared what appeared to be an open political confrontation with Gachagua.
“Mr Rigathi Gachagua, you are a coward, a despot and a dangerous man. From today, prepare for a battle royale. You have crossed the red line,” he said.
Warning to 2027 presidential hopefuls
Kuria did not stop there. Turning his attention to the 2027 General Election, he issued a stark warning to presidential aspirants considering alliances with the former Deputy President.
According to Kuria, any political coalition involving Gachagua is destined for defeat at the ballot.
“Dear presidential candidates, anyone associating with Rigathi Gachagua will be the official leader of the official opposition, including William Ruto,” Kuria warned.
He insisted that Gachagua’s involvement in any political formation would make it unelectable, branding him a liability ahead of the next presidential race.
As of publication, Rigathi Gachagua had not publicly responded to Kuria’s explosive accusations, though the incident is expected to further deepen rifts within Kenya’s already volatile political landscape.
Also Read: ODM Rift Deepens as Sifuna Accuses Junet of ‘Eating’ Raila Campaign Funds
Moses Kuria Walks Out of Burial Ceremony, Accuses Rigathi Gachagua of Orchestrating Violence