What You Need to Know
Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party, has denied any involvement in the death of blogger Maureen Kinyua, who died in a hit-and-run accident in 2019. Gachagua’s statement comes amid misinformation suggesting foul play, emphasizing the need for accurate reporting and respect for the deceased’s family.
Africa-Press – Kenya. The Democracy for Citizens Party(DCP) leader, Rigathi Gachagua, has refuted claims linking him to the death of blogger Maureen Gathigia Kinyua.
In a statement released by the DCP Party affiliate X account, Gachagua’s camp categorically stated that blogger Maurine died in a tragic road accident near Sagana Catholic Church, on May 24, 2019, in what investigations termed a hit-and-run case, which also failed to link him to the incident itself.
“Popular blogger and social media personality Maureen Gathigia Kinyua tragically passed away on May 24, 2019, in a road traffic accident near Sagana Catholic Church in Mathira, Nyeri County. Investigations into the incident classified it as a hit-and-run, and there is no official evidence linking her death to murder or foul play,” stated the statement.
The driver involved in the incident, according to the statement, was subsequently charged in Karatina Court with causing death by dangerous driving, and later released on a Ksh150,000 bond while awaiting further legal proceedings; thus is no possible way Gachagua could be linked with the death of the blogger.
The statement further states that information circulating online that suggests Maureen’s passing was a murder, and not an accident are nothing short of misinformation and death threats and that such claims are unverified and baseless, and they risk causing unnecessary distress to her family, and people associated to her.
“Despite these facts, misinformation has circulated online suggesting that Maureen’s death was a murder. Such claims are unverified and baseless, and they risk causing unnecessary distress to her family, friends, and supporters,” highlighted the statement.
Questions over the cause of the death of the popular blogger have resurfaced online, sparking confusion after remarks made on March 17, where President William Ruto accused former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of having a hand in the death. Ruto was speaking during a development tour in Busia County.
The public spat between the United Opposition and the Kenya Kwanza Administration, marked by fierce exchanges characterized by name-calling and personal attacks.
At the time of the blogger’s death, Ruto, who was then the Deputy President, personally called Maureen’s mother to offer condolences, describing her as a “keen, dedicated and thorough” worker for the Jubilee fraternity.
In DCP’s statement on Wednesday, Gachagua warned media experts and civil society leaders to emphasise that public figures, including President William Ruto, should exercise caution and avoid making statements based on unverified claims.
“Media experts and civil society leaders emphasise that public figures, including President William Ruto, should exercise caution and avoid making statements based on unverified claims,” stressed Gachagua
He called for accurate reporting to be maintained not only to uphold journalistic integrity but also to respect the family’s privacy and prevent the spread of rumors that can mislead the public.
Maureen Kinyua, a prominent blogger, tragically died in a road accident in May 2019. The incident was classified as a hit-and-run, leading to legal proceedings against the driver involved. Despite the official findings, speculation and misinformation about her death have persisted, particularly in the political arena. The recent comments from President William Ruto have reignited public interest and controversy surrounding the case, prompting Gachagua to address the issue publicly to clarify his position and defend his reputation.
