Gachagua Accuses Kindiki Over Deaths at Embu Stadium

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused his successor, Kithure Kindiki, of responsibility for the deaths of two people during a confrontation at Nembure Stadium in Embu County.

Gachagua alleged that security officers opened fire on civilians who had gathered at the stadium seeking access to funds being distributed at the venue.

In a strongly worded statement, the former deputy president claimed Kindiki was heard instructing police officers to deal with members of the public shortly before the shooting.

“You were heard loud and clear instructing the police to deal with wananchi. Kenyans were indiscriminately shot at, two killed and several injured. You cannot blame the people for demanding a share of their taxes, Bwana Soprano,” Gachagua claimed.

His remarks come amid growing political tensions in the Mt Kenya region, with the former deputy president increasingly critical of the government and Kindiki.

Gachagua raises questions over KSh350 million

Gachagua also made allegations surrounding the distribution of KSh350 million, which he claimed was being used during a series of closed-door meetings across Embu, Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties.

According to the former deputy president, the money was sourced from a contractor linked to the Nithi Bridge project and was allegedly being distributed under the direction of President William Ruto.

Gachagua claimed the funds were being selectively distributed to people attending controlled political gatherings.

He argued that residents of Embu had gathered at Nembure Stadium after learning about the alleged distribution and wanted access to what they considered public resources.

“On realising that looted cash, which is taxpayers’ money, is being dished out selectively, the people of Embu, Meru and Tharaka Nithi have decided that they also need to enjoy this cash,” Gachagua said.

The claims about the source and distribution of the money had not been independently established.

Gachagua attacks alleged Mt Kenya division plan

Gachagua also criticised what he described as an attempt to divide the Mt Kenya region into eastern and western political blocs.

He alleged that Ruto had given Kindiki until October 25, 2026, to implement the strategy.

The former deputy president dismissed the alleged plan as unrealistic, arguing that the region’s historical and cultural ties could not be broken through political manoeuvring.

“It is easier to cut a Mugumo tree with a razor blade than to divide the mountain,” he said.

Gachagua also revisited the June 2024 anti-government protests, accusing Kindiki of overseeing the security response that resulted in the deaths of young demonstrators while serving as Interior Cabinet Secretary.

“The blood of GenZs is oozing from your hands, Mr. Soprano,” he said, using a nickname he has previously applied to Kindiki.

Gachagua calls for an end to cash handouts

The former deputy president challenged the government to either ensure there were enough funds for everyone attending such gatherings or stop the distributions altogether.

“Either carry enough money for everyone or stop bribery,” Gachagua stated.

He further urged the government to focus on delivering essential services rather than what he described as cash handouts.

Among the priorities he cited were road construction, access to clean water, healthcare and education.

Gachagua also pointed to the recent Olkalou by-election, suggesting that the outcome should serve as a political warning to the administration.