A storm is brewing in Kenya’s political landscape after the grassroots organization Bunge la Wananchi called for former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s immediate arrest, accusing him of spreading dangerous falsehoods about Kenya’s involvement in Sudan’s civil war. The dramatic demand came during an emotionally charged press conference at Nairobi’s historic Jevanjee Gardens, where activists presented their petition to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
The controversy centers on Gachagua’s recent allegations that the Kenyan government, under President William Ruto, is facilitating Sudan’s conflict through illegal gold trade. Bunge la Wananchi’s spokesperson passionately argued these unsubstantiated claims could severely damage Kenya’s six-decade-long diplomatic ties with Sudan and undermine the country’s hard-earned reputation as a regional peacekeeper. “We cannot stand by while someone recklessly endangers our national interests with baseless accusations,” Bunge La Mwananchi chairman declared, setting a 72-hour ultimatum for Gachagua to surrender to authorities.
Legal experts supporting the movement warned that such inflammatory statements may violate multiple laws, including Section 66 of Kenya’s Penal Code regarding incitement, Article 32 of the Constitution concerning defamation, and various international human rights agreements.
The activists’ petition outlines several severe demands, including the immediate revocation of Gachagua’s Certificate of Good Conduct, a parliamentary summons to answer for allegedly breaching his oath of office, and potential prosecution by the DCI for hate speech and endangering national security. The move has sent shockwaves through Kenya’s political circles, with opposition figures already characterizing it as political persecution, while government officials remain conspicuously silent.
As the story develops, all eyes are on the DCI’s response to the petition and whether Gachagua will comply with the activists’ demands. The unfolding drama presents a critical test for Kenya’s democracy, balancing freedom of speech against national security concerns, while potentially affecting the country’s standing as an African Union peace mediator. Observers note the case could establish important legal precedents regarding the accountability of political figures for their public statements.
