Ruto Issues Warning After Chaos at Church Attended by Gachagua
President William Ruto has finally addressed the recent unrest that marred a church service in Othaya, where former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was present, calling for an end to political interference in sacred spaces.
Ruto Condemns Chaos and Excessive Force in Places of Worship
Speaking during a service at the PEFA All Nations Gospel Church in Gikomba, Nairobi, on Sunday, February 1, 2026, President Ruto strongly denounced the use of violence and excessive force within churches. Without directly naming individuals or parties involved, he highlighted a worrying pattern of turning houses of worship into arenas for political disputes.
“I want us to ask ourselves as Kenyans: we can practise politics, we can look for leadership, but when it comes to church, that should be a place of respect,” Ruto told the congregation, drawing applause. He stressed, “Let us not bring politics, hatred or chaos in churches. We want our churches to be a place of peace and seeking God. All of us, irrespective of who we are, must respect the place of God in our churches.”
Backdrop: The Disruptive Incident in Othaya
The President’s remarks follow widespread controversy over an incident on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at the ACK Witima Church in Othaya, Nyeri County. During the service, which Gachagua attended as a guest, a tear gas canister was lobbed into the premises, causing panic among worshippers. Congregants, including women, children, and the elderly, scrambled for safety, while reports emerged of damaged vehicles and injuries.
Gachagua fled the scene through nearby bushes, later describing the episode as a deliberate attempt on his life orchestrated by state actors. The opposition has accused the government of deploying rogue police elements to intimidate critics, while authorities, including the National Police Service, have maintained that proper protocols—such as notifying local officials in advance—were not followed for such high-profile gatherings.
Call for Restraint from Security Forces
In his address, Ruto directed a clear message to security personnel, urging greater restraint and professionalism when dealing with places of worship.
“All arms of security must ensure our places of worship are shielded from unnecessary and retrogressive battles and politics,” he stated, reinforcing that churches must remain protected sanctuaries free from political battles.
Ongoing Dialogue and Recent Developments
The Othaya disruption prompted high-level engagement between opposition figures—including Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, and People’s Liberation Party’s Martha Karua—and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja. In a meeting at Vigilance House on January 30, 2026, Kanja committed to fostering more open collaboration and positive feedback with political leaders.
Just days later, on Sunday, February 1, Gachagua and other opposition figures attended a church service in Murang’a amid a heavy police presence, underscoring lingering tensions but also efforts to maintain public order.
Ruto’s intervention appears aimed at de-escalating the situation, emphasizing unity and mutual respect amid Kenya’s deepening political divisions ahead of future electoral cycles.
Also Read: Mass Job Loss as Govt Announces Plans to Shut Down Over 100 Companies
Ruto Issues Warning After Chaos at Church Attended by Gachagua