Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused South Imenti MP Shadrack Mwiti, an ally of President William Ruto, of hiring goons to attack his convoy during a political rally in Nkubu, Meru County, on June 20, 2025.
The violent incident, which saw stones thrown at Gachagua’s entourage and injuries to local women, was swiftly countered by residents, forcing the attackers to flee.
The allegations escalated tensions between Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza coalition and Gachagua’s Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP).
Speaking at the rally, Gachagua condemned Mwiti, claiming he paid thugs to disrupt the event and assault attendees, including women.
“You, Honourable Mwiti, your time is up. You come here to beat women!” Gachagua declared, addressing a charged crowd in Kasongo, Nkubu.
The attackers, described as hired goons, began pelting the convoy with stones, injuring several women in the process.
Locals quickly intervened, dispersing the assailants, though no arrests have been confirmed by Meru County police.
The incident follows a pattern of political violence in Kenya, with Gachagua accusing Ruto’s allies of sponsoring disruptions to silence opposition voices.
Since his impeachment in October 2024, Gachagua has intensified his campaign against Ruto, alleging state-sponsored attacks, including the death of Albert Ojwang in police custody.
Mwiti, a vocal Ruto supporter, has not publicly responded to the allegations, but the incident has drawn condemnation from community leaders and human rights groups.
“Such acts of violence undermine democracy and harm innocent citizens,” said Meru-based activist Mary Kinoti.
Ruto allied MP, Shadrack Mwiti of South Imenti had paid goons to attack Gachagua’s convoy in Nkubu. They were dealt with very swiftly pic.twitter.com/Wv0V2rFv2k
— jim Njue (@jimNjue_) June 20, 2025
