Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has alleged that two police officers attached to Kikuyu Police Station were paid to assassinate him, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka during a political rally earlier this year.

Gachagua made the claims while addressing leaders from Murang’a County at his Wamunyoro home, saying he received the information from officers based at Kikuyu Police Station who allegedly revealed details of the suspected plot.

The former Deputy President claimed the officers were involved in a plan to target the three opposition leaders during a rally in Kikuyu, although he did not provide publicly available evidence to support the allegations.

The claims have sparked fresh debate over the security of political leaders and the neutrality of state institutions, particularly the National Police Service, which is constitutionally mandated to operate independently and serve all Kenyans without discrimination.

Gachagua also accused Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin of failing to act against the officers despite alleged attempts to investigate their conduct. He further criticised the leadership of the security sector, claiming that police appointments had become influenced by ethnic considerations.

“The police service has been ethnicised,” Gachagua alleged, claiming that some senior police positions were being occupied by officers from President William Ruto’s community and accusing some officials of using security agencies for political interests.

The allegations have not been independently verified, and no public police report, court documents or official investigation confirming the alleged assassination plot have been released.

The accusations come amid continued public debate about the role of security agencies in Kenya’s political environment. Over the years, questions about police accountability, excessive use of force and political interference have frequently emerged, especially during election periods and moments of heightened political competition.

Kenya’s Constitution requires the National Police Service to maintain professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) was established to investigate complaints against police officers and promote accountability within the service.

If formal complaints are filed and evidence presented, the allegations could trigger investigations by relevant oversight bodies. However, without supporting evidence, the claims remain allegations made by the DCP leader.

For Gachagua and his supporters, the accusations reinforce concerns about the safety of opposition figures and the independence of state institutions. For security agencies, the allegations present another challenge in maintaining public trust and demonstrating transparency.

As political competition intensifies ahead of future electoral contests, questions surrounding the credibility, neutrality and accountability of Kenya’s security institutions are likely to remain central to national debate.