Gachagua hits out at Kihika over Nakuru convoy attack, vows to unseat her in 2027

The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has accused Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika and Nakuru Town West MP Samuel Arama of being behind an attack on his convoy on Friday, vowing to continue with his tour despite the incident.

Gachagua made the remarks on Saturday while opening a DCP office in Nakuru Town East, a day after his convoy was attacked during his political tour of the county.

The convoy was pelted with stones at Kaptembwa, in Nakuru Town West Constituency, with photographs from the scene showing several vehicles with shattered windscreens and windows.

Gachagua said the attackers also used axes and other crude weapons, and alleged that police officers watched as the incident unfolded.

The former Deputy President alleged that Kihika, her husband and Arama organised and financed the attack with direction from President William Ruto.

He also accused Arama of being a political "mole" working for President Ruto and questioned his association with the Jubilee Party.

Gachagua's accusations come as political competition intensifies in Nakuru ahead of the 2027 General Election, with the ex-DP positioning the DCP party as an opposition vehicle against the Ruto administration.

Rather than scaling back his activities in the county following Friday's incident, Gachagua said he would increase his presence in Nakuru.

"I will be camping in Nakuru to ensure I get votes here," he said, citing the county's large electorate.

Nakuru is one of Kenya's largest voter blocs, making it an important battleground for parties seeking to build support ahead of the 2027 election.

Gachagua also criticised Kihika over her alleged involvement in the incident and said he would mount a sustained political campaign against her.

Kihika was elected Nakuru gGvernor in 2022 on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket and Gachagua alleged that he played a key role in helping her secure the seat then but would work hard to ensure she is unseated in 2027.