Rigathi Gachagua says over 40 NIS officers are trailing him in the US
Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has accused Kenya’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) of deploying over 40 agents to monitor his movements during his current visit to the United States.
Speaking in Boston on Saturday, July 19, Gachagua termed the alleged surveillance a direct threat to his safety and a potential trigger for political unrest in Kenya.
“During my current tour of America, over 40 agents were deployed by the NIS to trail us. Their intentions could have endangered not only our safety but also triggered serious unrest back home,” Gachagua said.
He also warned that attempts to intimidate opposition figures abroad would only worsen the already tense political climate back home.
Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called on Kenyans living abroad to reject tribal divisions. Speaking in Busia County on Friday, July 18, he emphasised the need for unity.
“Do not take tribalism to the diaspora. You cannot go abroad and just talk to one community,” Wetang’ula told Kenyans at a women’s empowerment event at Busende Primary School.
He was accompanied by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, and other leaders who also echoed the message of national unity.
Gachagua, who left Kenya on July 9 for a two-month US tour, also claimed that individuals close to President William Ruto had attempted to block his travel plans.
“Some of the President’s allies even called members of my team to threaten us. They said they would try to stop me at the airport,” Gachagua alleged.
Despite the threats, the opposition leader is currently touring various US cities, including Dallas, California, Seattle, Boston, and Baltimore, where he is holding town halls and community events.
Gachagua also revealed that the opposition has mobilised lawyers to offer free legal aid to youth arrested during recent anti-government protests.
“If I’m not stopped from travelling, we’ve already made arrangements with other leaders in the United Opposition to provide legal help to our young people,” he stated.
He maintained that the charges against the protesters were politically motivated and vowed continued support for them.
