This archive report was first published on 5 September 2021.
Published on September 5, 2021, Deputy President William Ruto's visit to Kieni, Nyeri county, was marred by protests as locals showed their unwavering support for President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Despite efforts by his supporters to have him attend a church service at Mbiriri Full Gospel Church, the DP's convoy was forced to speed off as it headed to the venue.
Tens of residents stood on the roadside, refusing to engage with the second in command, and instead chanted pro-Uhuru slogans, including 'Uhuru! Uhuru! Uhuru! Kwenda kabisa (leave this place) …Mwizi! Mwizi! Mwizi! (Thief! Thief! Thief!).'
The protests were a culmination of tensions that had been building since the previous day, when two churches initially invited to host the DP's functions pulled out, citing unknown reasons.
Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua and other organisers were left scrambling to find an alternative venue, which they eventually secured at Mbiriri Full Gospel Church.
However, their efforts were thwarted by rival groups, who barricaded several roads leading to the church, causing chaos and prompting police intervention.
Earlier in the day, Gachagua was secretly recorded on camera having a phone call with one of his mobilisers, in which he warned against making blunders that could lead to humiliation.
When questioned about his role in the fracas, Gachagua denied any involvement.
