Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s loyal supporters have issued a stern warning to the government, vowing to disrupt Kenya’s upcoming CHAN Quarterfinal football match if their leader is arrested upon his return from the United States.
The fiery declaration comes amid reports that Gachagua could face possible arrest over alleged political and financial disputes once he lands back in the country. His allies, mostly drawn from the Mount Kenya region, insist that any attempt to detain him would be an act of political persecution aimed at silencing one of President Ruto’s strongest critics within the ruling coalition.
The group warned that they are ready to mobilize and block the smooth running of the highly anticipated CHAN game, an event expected to attract thousands of fans and put Kenya in the continental spotlight. “If they dare touch our leader, forget about CHAN. The game will not continue,” one supporter boldly declared during a rally.
This threat places the government in a delicate position, as disrupting CHAN could not only embarrass the nation internationally but also expose deep divisions within the Kenya Kwanza administration.
Analysts argue that the growing rift between President Ruto and his deputy is fueling tension among their respective camps, with supporters increasingly vocal about what they see as betrayal and marginalization. For Gachagua’s backers, the CHAN tournament presents a perfect stage to dramatize their grievances and send a message that their leader must not be humiliated.
As Kenya prepares for one of its biggest football tournaments in recent years, all eyes will now be on the political showdown between State House and the Deputy President’s camp. Whether the government proceeds with an arrest or chooses diplomacy, the outcome could have serious implications both for politics and sports in the country.
