Mukurweini Member of Parliament, John Kaguchia, has been arrested by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) after spending the night at Royal Media Services (RMS) offices. The legislator claims the move is linked to remarks he made, which authorities consider inflammatory.
The incident began on Sunday evening after Kaguchia appeared on Inooro TV’s Kiririmbi program. Following the show, he alleged that security officers had surrounded the media premises and set up roadblocks, intending to arrest him. Taking to social media, the MP stated that he would not be intimidated, insisting that the police presence was meant to silence him. Officers reportedly camped outside the RMS offices overnight.
Speaking on Monday morning, Kaguchia said he is being investigated over comments he made during a political rally in Kieni, Nyeri County. He argued that his remarks were misinterpreted and exaggerated. The MP further accused government digital strategist Dennis Itumbi, along with some Mt Kenya leaders, of spreading what he termed as a distorted narrative that led to his arrest. Kaguchia maintained that the matter should fall under the jurisdiction of the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), adding that he had not received any formal summons.
During the rally, Kaguchia warned residents of the Mt Kenya region about the consequences of supporting President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election. His remarks, delivered in Kikuyu, suggested that those who vote for the president would face repercussions. These statements have since sparked debate, with critics labeling them as inflammatory and dangerous.
Regional DCI commander Daniel Kandie confirmed that officers apprehended the MP and will take him to the DCI headquarters along Valley Road for further questioning. Authorities are expected to determine whether the remarks violate laws on hate speech or incitement.
The arrest highlights rising political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections and raises concerns over freedom of speech versus accountability in political discourse. It also underscores the role of institutions like the NCIC in handling sensitive political statements.
