DCP Party leader Rigathi Gachagua speaks during a political rally. In the mugshot is Mukurwe-ini MP John Kaguchia./FILE
Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has criticised the arrest of Mukurwe-ini MP John Kaguchia, describing it as a politically motivated use of the criminal justice system and arguing that such actions only strengthen the opposition.
Kaguchia was arrested on Monday morning shortly after leaving Royal Media Services, where he had reportedly spent the night following an appearance on Inooro TV's Kiririmbi programme.
His arrest came amid heightened political tensions involving opposition leaders. Reports indicate the MP had recently made public remarks on political violence and security issues.
In a statement issued after the arrest, Gachagua alleged that the government was selectively applying the law to suppress dissent, comparing the incident to tactics he said were employed by previous administrations against political opponents.
"The use of the criminal justice system to manage politics is synonymous with outgoing, cowardly regimes," Gachagua said.
He argued that similar arrests during the previous administration failed to weaken their political movement, saying they instead increased public sympathy for those targeted.
"The selective application of the law is counterproductive," Gachagua said, adding that the Kenya Kwanza administration had previously criticised the arrest of opposition figures while serving as deputy president.
Gachagua further questioned what he described as a pattern in which leaders change their approach to dissent after assuming the presidency.
Referring to Kaguchia's arrest, he maintained that the move would strengthen rather than diminish support for the opposition.
"The overnight harassment and early morning arrest of Hon. John Kaguchia today only strengthen the resolve of our supporters and elevate his standing within our leadership hierarchy," he said.
The former deputy president added that lawyers representing Kaguchia were seeking to secure his release on bond ahead of his expected court appearance.
As of publication, authorities had not publicly responded to Gachagua's allegations or provided detailed reasons for Kaguchia's arrest.
Any investigation or criminal proceedings involving the MP will be determined through the judicial process.
The arrest has drawn reactions from several opposition figures, who have questioned the timing of the police action, while supporters of the government have maintained that all individuals are subject to the law regardless of their political affiliation.
