Murkomen warns Gachagua ahead of Thursday return, hints at arrest if chaos erupt

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has cautioned Democracy for Citizen Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua against disrupting peace in Nairobi on Thursday, when he is expected back from the United States.

Murkomen, who says security agencies are on high alert, has warned that the former Deputy President could be arrested, citing intelligence reports indicating planned chaos on the day of his return.

With just over 40 hours to go before Gachagua returns from the United States, the stage appears set for a political showdown.

“The last time he was around, there were so many goons in the name of protests, we were very prepared and every other minute the National Police Service is prepared to protect citizens and their property,” Murkomen said in Murang’a County on Tuesday during the 30th Jukwaa la Usalama forum.

With Gachagua’s party calling for over one million supporters to converge at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for his arrival, the government believes the move is a cover to disrupt business in Nairobi.

“We are of course aware of those elements of threatening disruptions, threatening football, you know, threatening all these other issues and I need to say that we will take legal action,” said Murkomen.

The Interior CS also said the government will closely monitor Gachagua’s political activities across the country.

“The security agencies should be prepared for a more chaotic environment as a result of his coming back to the country. Let me say that the security sector is prepared to deal with any insecurity issues,” he added.

In its efforts to tackle the alcohol menace under the 100-day clampdown announced on Monday, the Interior ministry said it has confiscated both unadulterated ethanol and counterfeit liquor from a notorious businessman in Murang’a County, valued at over Ksh.3 million.

The Jukwaa la Usalama event moves to Nyandarua County on Wednesday.