Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticised ODM leader Raila Odinga for publicly denouncing the controversial shoot-to-kill directive allegedly issued to security agencies by the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Speaking during a diaspora engagement forum in Seattle, United States, Gachagua questioned why Raila, who he termed a partner in President William Ruto’s administration, would opt to voice his concerns through the media rather than seeking a private consultation with the Head of State.
“President William Ruto is his partner. Why is he addressing him through the press? They are brothers. They should sit, talk, and agree that this is wrong and stop it,” Gachagua said. He urged Raila to raise such serious concerns in closed-door discussions rather than fueling public debate, adding, “Go to his office, drink tea, and ask to stop it.”
Gachagua’s remarks come in the wake of Raila’s strong condemnation of the use of excessive force by police, particularly during recent protests where several youth were reportedly killed or injured. Raila maintained that any order that encourages law enforcement officers to kill, maim, or shock citizens during protests or law enforcement operations is unconstitutional.
“In a protest or any other environment that requires law enforcement, all the above orders to shoot to kill, maim, disorient, or shock citizens are wrong,” Raila stated, urging the police to conduct lawful arrests and present suspects in court.
The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), associated with Gachagua, also weighed in, terming Raila’s remarks as “factually untenable, disingenuous, and contradictory.” DCP deputy party leader Cleophas Malalah argued that as a prominent figure engaging with the current administration, Raila should bear responsibility for government actions and not distance himself when controversial policies arise.
The incident highlights simmering tensions within the political alliance and raises questions about internal communication among Kenya’s top leaders. As public debate over police brutality and human rights intensifies, the demand for accountability and due process remains central to the national discourse.
