Gachagua to IG Douglas Kanja: ‘Act or carry the cross’

Leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), Rigathi Gachagua has urged Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to take immediate action against individuals allegedly threatening his supporters ahead of the November 27, 2025, by‑election in Mbeere North Constituency, Embu County.

In a letter dated  November 12, 2025, Mr Gachagua referred to a viral social‑media video showing Simon Njagi Njiru (alias “Gitundo wa Gitundo”), Josiah Kariuki Ngari (alias “Mtetezi Puff”) and Susan Nyaga making threats of violence ahead of the poll.

He demanded that the three be arrested, arraigned and charged under the Penal Code without delay, warning that failure to act would make IG Kanja personally liable before the International Criminal Court.

The letter was copied to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and other relevant agencies.

The Mbeere North by‑election was triggered by the departure of former MP Geoffrey Ruku to a Cabinet appointment.

The race has drawn interest from several candidates, with political loyalties sharply divided.

Leading the pack is Leonard Muriuki Muthende, popularly known as “Leo”, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) nominee.

Newton Kariuki, also known as “Newton Karish”, is the Democratic Party (DP) candidate and a former Muminji Ward MCA.

Duncan Mbui, initially the DCP candidate, now runs as an independent after parting ways with the party.

Community elders have signalled support for a pro‑government candidate, adding further political significance to the contest.

Mr Gachagua himself has announced plans to campaign in Mbeere North from November 16 to November 24, 2025, to back his preferred candidate.