NYERI, Kenya — President William Ruto has strongly condemned the violent disruption of a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County, calling on Kenyans and security agencies to uphold the sanctity of places of worship.
On Sunday, January 25, 2026, worshippers at ACK Witima Church were thrown into chaos when tear gas canisters were deployed inside the sanctuary. Among those present was former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who described the terrifying ordeal.
“We were marooned in church, being attacked with live bullets and tear gas, and they torched my vehicles,” Gachagua wrote, recounting how he and others were forced to flee through nearby bushes to escape the smoke and bullets.
Speaking during a separate church service, President Ruto emphasised that political activity must never intrude on spiritual spaces.
“We can practise politics, we can look for leadership, but when it comes to church, that should be a place of respect,” he said. “Let us not bring politics, hatred or chaos in churches. We want our churches to be a place of peace and seeking God.”
Ruto also called on security agencies to safeguard places of worship from politically motivated disturbances, warning that such incidents threaten national unity and the freedom to worship freely.
“All of us, irrespective of who we are and what we believe in, must respect the place of God in our churches,” he said.
Also Read: Gachagua alleges armed church attack, accuses UDA-linked officials in Nyeri
The incident has sparked political tension, with Gachagua accusing authorities of orchestrating the attack.
He has demanded that the police officers involved be arrested and prosecuted, threatening nationwide demonstrations should justice not be served.
The attack at ACK Witima comes amid heightened political rivalry in central Kenya ahead of the 2027 elections, with both regional and national leaders urging restraint.
Analysts warn that repeated breaches of security in places of worship could fuel public unrest and deepen divisions in the lead-up to the polls.
