Democratic Change Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has accused state agencies of using excessive force during an incident at PCEA Kariobangi North, where two of his supporters were reportedly shot.
The former deputy president shared the allegations in a public statement on Saturday, saying the disturbance unfolded during a church service.
According to Gachagua, the confrontation involved police officers and individuals he described as “goons,” whom he claimed were deployed to intimidate residents following political disagreements in the area.
He attributed the clash to tensions surrounding Kariobangi North’s recent local electoral activities, where rival political parties, including the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), have been competing for influence.
In his statement, Gachagua said the two DCP supporters were admitted with serious gunshot injuries.
The former deputy president further alleged that tear gas was fired inside the church, forcing congregants—among them clergy, women, and children—to flee for safety.
He described the incident as a violation of religious spaces, asserting that the disruption was linked to voter choices in the constituency.
His remarks added that such actions could fuel public resistance to what he termed unpopular governance.
All claims were sourced from Gachagua’s statement posted on social media.
Churches in Nairobi’s informal settlements often function as community centres, making any disturbance within their premises particularly sensitive.
Kenyan law, use of force by police is regulated by the National Police Service Act, which requires officers to prioritize de-escalation and proportionality.
Kariobangi North has historically been a politically active neighbourhood, with contestation between emerging parties and established formations frequently escalating during by-elections or local mobilization drives.