Gachagua Warns Matatu Operators Against Leasing Vehicles to Disrupt His Rallies

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has warned public service vehicle (PSV) operators against leasing their vehicles to groups allegedly involved in disrupting his political events.

Speaking during a live interview on Kameme FM and Kameme Radio on Monday, 12 January, Gachagua accused individuals linked to President William Ruto’s administration of hiring matatus to transport groups he described as hostile to his rallies and those of his allies. He said some PSV saccos, particularly in Thika, may be unaware that their vehicles are being used for such activities.

Gachagua said the alleged practice has already created security risks. He cited an incident in Gatundu where more than 20 vehicles were reportedly used to ferry groups accused of planning to disrupt his supporters. He claimed the situation nearly escalated, with residents threatening to set the vehicles on fire.

“I want to tell people who own saccos that they are very lucky because the other day some people had hired over 20 PSV vehicles to take goons in Gatundu to attack my supporters, and it was just a matter of minutes; the residents could have burned them,” he said.

He warned matatu owners that they should not expect compensation or public sympathy if their vehicles are damaged while being used for such purposes. “If they dare to give goons their vehicles, if it fails to come back, do not complain,” he said.

Gachagua’s remarks followed events on Sunday, 11 January, when he alleged that groups were hired to disrupt a church service he attended in Gatundu. He said local residents intervened to prevent the disruption and accused police of providing protection to those involved.

He further claimed that police officers fired teargas into the church while it was occupied by women, children, and other congregants. Gachagua praised residents for resisting the alleged disruption, describing their actions as courageous.

At a separate rally, Gachagua urged the public to boycott matatu saccos he accused of leasing vehicles for political violence.