President William Ruto has broken his silence on the disruption that occurred during a church service in Othaya, condemning the chaos and the use of excessive force inside places of worship.
Speaking at the PEFA All Nations Gospel Church in Gikomba on Sunday, February 1, the President emphasized the importance of maintaining the sanctity of churches, regardless of political differences.
He warned against the growing trend of politicizing religious events.
President Ruto Breaks Silence on Othaya Chaos During Church Service Attended by Gachagua. Photo: Courtesy.
Ruto urged Kenyans to separate politics from worship, stressing that while political engagement is acceptable, places of worship should remain spaces of respect and peace.
The Head of State further insisted that security officers exercise restraint in places of worship, while opposition leaders recently met Inspector General Douglas Kanja to discuss better collaboration with the police.
Ruto’s remarks follow a controversy involving the National Police Service after a church service in Othaya on Sunday, February 25, was disrupted when a teargas canister was thrown inside the venue.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who was among the dignitaries expected to attend, was forced to flee through nearby bushes, alleging that his life was in danger.
The incident has since sparked a blame game between the opposition and the state, with the National Police Service maintaining that Gachagua and his team should have notified local authorities ahead of the church event.
