Former Chief Justice David Maraga has condemned the attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s convoy in Nakuru County, calling for an end to political violence and intolerance.
As Linda Mwananchi rallies begin in Homa Bay on Sunday 16, 2026, Maraga urged political leaders to respect human life, refrain from incitement and uphold constitutional freedoms, while calling on security agencies to deal with armed groups professionally and within the law.
“On several occasions, I have stated that Articles 36 and 37 of the Constitution guarantee all Kenyans the freedoms of association and assembly. Sadly, we continue to witness high levels of intolerance and violence, including the rampant use of armed militias against political opponents and civilians. This is abhorrent and must stop.”
Maraga specifically condemned the incident involving Gachagua’s convoy in Nakuru on Friday, 14 August. The Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader was touring the county as part of the party’s political mobilisation activities when his convoy was attacked in Kaptembwa, within Nakuru Town West Constituency.
Reports from the scene showed several vehicles in the motorcade with shattered windscreens and rear windows following a stoning incident.
Gachagua’s Nakuru tour had included the opening of a DCP office in Naivasha before engagements in Gilgil, Soko Mjinga in Nakuru Town West and Kanu House in Nakuru Town East.
Maraga said the incident should serve as a warning to political leaders and security agencies as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 General Election.
“I am appalled by the attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s convoy in Nakuru County on Friday, and as the Linda Mwananchi rallies commence today in Homabay County, I take this opportunity to call our country back to order.”
The former Chief Justice appealed to leaders across the political divide to avoid statements that could fuel violence or deepen divisions among Kenyans.
“I appeal to leaders on all sides to respect human life and dignity and restrain from pronouncements aimed at inciting or dividing Kenyans.”
Maraga also directed his appeal to security agencies, urging them to maintain professionalism while dealing with groups involved in political violence.
“I urge the security organs to exercise maximum professionalism in accordance to their oath and deal with armed militias in accordance to the law.”
The attack on Gachagua’s convoy has triggered competing political claims. Gachagua accused individuals linked to the government of being behind the incident, while Nakuru West MP Samuel Arama denied organising groups to confront the former deputy president and said he was not in the constituency when the incident occurred.
The incident has added to concerns over political intolerance as opposition groups step up mobilisation activities across the country.
The Linda Mwananchi rallies, led by figures including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Siaya Governor James Orengo, have also faced heightened scrutiny amid claims of possible attempts to disrupt their activities.
Maraga urged Kenyans to protect the country's unity, saying political differences should not undermine the right to peaceful political participation.
“There is only one Kenya. Let’s guard it with all our might.”