Former Deputy President and Democracy for citizen party leader Rigathi Gachagua has issued a stern warning to Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators, accusing some of allegedly being hired to disrupt his public events and those of his allies.
Speaking during an interview on a local radio station on Monday, January 12, 2026. Gachagua cautioned matatu owners against allowing their vehicles to be used for such activities, warning that they should not complain “if their vehicles fail to return.”
The remarks come a day after alleged goons reportedly attempted to attack him during a church service in Gatundu on Sunday 11th . Gachagua claimed that some owners of unnamed PSV SACCOs, particularly those operating in Thika, were unaware that their vehicles had allegedly been exploited to carry out what he described as a covert scheme.
He further alleged that leaders allied to President William Ruto were behind the hiring of PSVs to disrupt his public engagements.
I want to warn matatu owners not to allow their vehicles to be used for political thuggery. Some of you are innocent, but your vehicles are being misused without your knowledge, Gachagua said.
The former deputy president further accused leaders allied to President William Ruto of being behind the alleged hiring of PSVs to disrupt his meetings, claiming that the incidents were politically motivated.
Gachagua also raised concerns over what he described as the failure of security agencies to act decisively, urging the police to remain neutral and protect all citizens regardless of political affiliation.
By Monday evening, police had not issued an official statement on the Gatundu incident. Leaders allied to President Ruto have previously dismissed similar claims by Gachagua, terming them reckless and aimed at inflaming political tensions.
Meanwhile, PSV operators and SACCO officials in Thika and surrounding areas have distanced themselves from the allegations, insisting that they operate under strict regulations and do not condone the use of their vehicles for unlawful activities.
The incident comes amid rising political tension following Gachagua’s fallout with the ruling coalition, as he continues to mobilise support in parts of Central Kenya while openly criticising the Kenya Kwanza administration.