Africa-Press – Kenya. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has challenged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to arrest him hours after DCI dismissed his allegations over a Sh500 million exhibit in an ongoing fuel procurement probe.
Speaking after the DCI issued a statement rejecting his claims, Gachagua said he would not be intimidated, insisting he stands by his remarks and is ready to face the consequences if authorities believe he has committed an offence.
“I spoke at Gakoe and explained the issues surrounding the conflict and how a Sh500 million exhibit was stolen,” he said.
“Now I see the DCI writing statements to intimidate me. Let me tell you, if you want to arrest me, come and arrest me and see what will follow.”
Gachagua claimed the DCI was focusing on him instead of pursuing individuals he claimed had attacked him and his supporters at various public events.
“Before you threaten me with arrest, I want those who attacked us in Limuru during a funeral, after allegedly being sent, to be arrested and taken to court,” he said.
He further alleged that his supporters had been assaulted in areas including Mwiki, Kariobangi and Witima, and demanded action against those responsible before any move is made against him.
“Do not intimidate us. We have the right to freedom of expression to defend Kenyans,” Gachagua said.
His remarks come after the DCI dismissed claims he made during an Easter Sunday service at AIPCA Gakoe Church in Gatundu North, Kiambu county.
In its statement, the agency described Gachagua’s allegations regarding recoveries and exhibits in the ongoing probe into the suspected irregular procurement of fuel cargo by the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum as false, unfounded and malicious.
“The allegations levelled against the DCI lack any factual or evidentiary basis and are clearly intended to undermine public confidence in a key national law enforcement institution,” the agency said.
The DCI said all evidence and exhibits related to the case are being handled professionally and in accordance with the law and internal procedures.
It also revealed that it is reviewing Gachagua’s full remarks, particularly those delivered in Gikuyu, to determine whether they may amount to offences under the National Cohesion and Integration Act or other provisions of the Penal Code, including hate speech or incitement.
“The DCI will not hesitate to take appropriate action where the law has been broken, irrespective of the status or position of any individual,” the statement read.
However, Gachagua maintained that he would continue speaking out, suggesting he has more information yet to disclose.
“If money is stolen, I will speak about it. I have not said everything yet, I am still preparing more,” he said.
The exchange signals rising tensions between the former deputy president and state agencies, with the fuel probe emerging as a new flashpoint in the unfolding political contest.
