The government has warned that Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua will only be allowed to hold his planned political rally at Kamukunji grounds this Thursday if proper procedures are followed — specifically, official notification to the police for adequate security arrangements.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen made it clear that while the Constitution guarantees the right to assemble and hold peaceful demonstrations, that right must be exercised responsibly and within the boundaries of the law.
“If they have submitted the required notification to the police, then we have absolutely no issue with any political party or individual holding a peaceful rally. However, that meeting must not result in violence, looting, or any disturbance of public peace,” said Murkomen while speaking in Nyandarua County.
The CS issued a strong warning that the government will not tolerate any form of lawlessness disguised as political expression. He emphasized that if any government property is destroyed — including police stations, vehicles, or other public infrastructure — the state will treat it as a serious offense, possibly charging suspects under anti-terror laws.
“If you torch a police station, destroy public vehicles, vandalize property, or loot businesses, those are not just minor crimes. That’s terrorism. You are instilling fear and causing chaos, and that is how the law will treat such actions,” Murkomen warned.
Murkomen’s remarks come amid heightened political tension surrounding Gachagua’s highly-publicized return from the United States and a planned mass rally at Kamukunji. Supporters of the DCP leader have called on over one million Kenyans to welcome him at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and later accompany him to Kamukunji for what is being dubbed a “national awakening rally.”
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja echoed the Interior CS’s stance, downplaying the anticipated return as an ordinary political event and affirming that police are fully prepared to ensure order. “The National Police Service is in full control of the situation. We expect normalcy across the city and especially at JKIA during Gachagua’s arrival,” said IG Kanja.
Earlier intelligence reports, according to CS Murkomen, had suggested that certain groups were planning to incite unrest and chaos during Gachagua’s return. The government has since issued a firm warning to DCP organizers and supporters, stressing that any attempt to breach peace will be met with swift and lawful action.
“The last time Gachagua was active politically, we witnessed disruptions under the guise of protests. This time, we are better prepared. Security agencies are on high alert, and we will protect the rights of all citizens — including those not taking part in the rally,” Murkomen said on Tuesday during the 30th Jukwaa la Usalama (National Security Forum) in Murang’a County.
The ultimatum is clear: Gachagua and his party must follow the law, notify authorities, and ensure the rally remains peaceful. Failure to do so may see them face severe consequences, including criminal charges related to incitement, destruction of property, or even terrorism, depending on the outcome of the event.
