Rigathi Gachagua Arrest: Ex-DP Says He’s Ready for Jail, “Jela Ni Za Wanaume”

Rigathi Gachagua, Kenya’s former deputy president, has claimed that the government is planning to arrest him.

He insists he has no problem with it, boldly stating, “Jela ni za wanaume” (prisons are for men).

The alleged plot follows his remarks about an attempt to remove Chief Justice Martha Koome.

As political tensions rise, Gachagua remains defiant, urging opposition leaders to stand strong. But what’s really happening? Let’s break it down.

Government’s Alleged Plan to Arrest Gachagua

Rigathi Gachagua says authorities planned to arrest him over the weekend, accusing him of inciting unrest.

Speaking at the launch of Martha Karua’s People’s Liberation Party on February 27, he revealed that the scheme followed his recent statements in Meru.

“I warned them to leave Martha Koome alone or face consequences, and they wanted to arrest me for it,” he said. Gachagua believes his defense of the judiciary is being used as an excuse to silence him.

Despite the looming threat, he remains unshaken. “I told them I was home with tea ready. If they wanted to arrest me, we could share tea and then head to the cells together,” he remarked, emphasizing that leaders must sacrifice for justice.

What Did Gachagua Say in Meru? A Warning to President Ruto

On February 23, while addressing a gathering in Meru, Gachagua issued a stern warning to President William Ruto.

He accused the government of trying to remove Chief Justice Martha Koome, calling it an attack on democracy.

“The judiciary must remain independent. If they interfere with Martha Koome, we will not sit back and watch,” he declared.

His speech sparked mixed reactions, with supporters praising his courage and critics accusing him of political incitement.

Calls for Action Against The Impeached DP

Following his remarks, some leaders called for his arrest. They urged law enforcement and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to take action, arguing that his statements could fuel political unrest.

Rigathi Gachagua: “I’m Not Afraid of Jail; Come Arrest Me.”

Gachagua insists that he is ready for any consequences. He dismissed the fear of imprisonment, saying prisons today are far better than the mud-walled houses he grew up in.

“They plan my arrest every day, but I’m not worried. The cells today have bricks and even washrooms inside,” he joked.

He also encouraged opposition leaders to stay fearless. “We cannot let fear control us. If we do, where will Kenyans find hope?” he asked.

His bold stance has fueled debate, with many wondering whether his arrest would be politically motivated or justified.