Gachagua: It’s bad for DCI to be used to settle political scores

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sharply criticised the government for deploying security personnel to intimidate elected officials with differing political views. 

Speaking at ACK St Patrick's Church in Kayole on Sunday, DP Gachagua decried the growing trend of using law enforcement to manage political affairs, describing it as a setback for democracy.

"I urge the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) to avoid taking us back to the era where politics was controlled through the criminal justice system, a strategy that made the previous administration highly unpopular," Mr Gachagua remarked.

Citing the recent interrogation of Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru and Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, Gachagua denounced the harassment of the two lawmakers, stating that such actions are politically motivated. 

"It’s unjust to harass Mr Gakuya and Mr Gathiru by arresting them, seizing their phones, and intimidating them simply over political differences," he said.

He further demanded the return of the confiscated phones, arguing that attempts to intimidate elected leaders only strengthen their resolve and damage the government’s reputation. 

DP Gachagua added, "Harassing politicians only makes them more popular."

Calling for professionalism within law enforcement, the DP urged DCI officers to follow legal guidelines and ethical standards while performing their duties. 

He advised them to focus on tackling crime, stressing that Kenya’s Constitution and existing legal frameworks are sufficient to guide their work without political interference.

"Let law enforcement officers do their jobs without engaging in politics. There are more pressing issues of crime in Nairobi that need attention," Mr Gachagua concluded.