DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua has broken his silence following the chaos that erupted during a church service in Othaya, Nyeri County, describing the incident as a failed assassination attempt.

In a social media post on Sunday afternoon, Gachagua thanked God and the residents of Othaya for helping his security team evacuate him to safety.

He wrote, “I thank God for His Mercy and Kindness. I thank the residents of Othaya for helping my private security to evacuate me to safety. I am now safe having just arrived at my Wamunyoro residence.”

He also urged thousands of supporters who had gathered in Othaya Town and Kiawara to remain calm and peacefully go home, noting that his vehicles had been disabled and sound systems dismantled.

“Please note that the killer squad backed by the local police are all over the two venues and we don’t know their intention after failing to assassinate me inside a church,” he warned. He concluded by expressing gratitude to Kenyan leaders and citizens who condemned what he described as a “heinous act” allegedly orchestrated by President William Ruto.

The events that prompted the statement occurred at Witima ACK Church, where Gachagua was attending Sunday service.

Chaos erupted after tear gas was reportedly lobbed into the congregation, causing worshippers, including women and children, to flee in panic.

Videos from the scene show children crying, congregants covering their faces, and panicked worshippers scrambling to find cover as gunshots rang out nearby.

Amid the turmoil, a separate video captured Gachagua being whisked away by his security team.

Dressed in a checked shirt, grey trousers, and a black blazer, he was seen jumping over a fence through a thicket as clergymen followed closely behind.

The clip came minutes after DCP party secretary general Cleophas Malala said Gachagua’s whereabouts were unknown.

The dramatic events have drawn widespread attention online, with police yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.

Opposition leaders, led by Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka condemned the violence meted out on the churchgoers during Gachagua’s visit. 

“This is a grave and unacceptable violation of the Constitution and the rule of law. A church is a sacred and protected space. The use of force against unarmed citizens in such circumstances is unlawful and indefensible,” Kalonzo said on X.

He held the Inspector General of Police and all those responsible fully accountable for the safety of Gachagua, his team, and the civilians inside the church.