By Eddah Waithaka
Grassroots movement Bunge La Mwananchi today vehemently dismissed former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s allegations of a government-backed “killer squad,” calling the claims “reckless” and a threat to national security.
During a fiery press conference at Jevanjee Gardens, the group accused Gachagua of politicizing counter-terrorism efforts and demanded an apology to Kenyans.
“Baseless and Dangerous” Allegations
Bunge La Mwananchi National Chairman Lawrence Oyugi condemned Gachagua’s remarks as “irresponsible fear-mongering,” arguing they undermine public trust in security agencies.
The group emphasized that Kenya’s security organs operate under strict legal frameworks, with oversight from bodies like the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) .
Defense of Squad 101’s Legitimacy
The movement clarified that Squad 101 referenced by Gachagua is a legally sanctioned counter-terrorism unit targeting groups like Al-Shabaab.
“Its operations are intelligence-led and constitutionally mandated to protect lives, not harm citizens,” Oyugi stated, dismissing claims of extrajudicial killings .
Call for Evidence or Retraction
Bunge challenged Gachagua to submit proof of misconduct to oversight institutions like IPOA or the National Police Service Commission, rather than “peddling rumors abroad.”
The group warned that unverified accusations risk destabilizing Kenya’s fight against terrorism .
Political Motivations Alleged
The statement linked Gachagua’s claims to ongoing protests, referencing a viral video of masked officers in unmarked vehicles.
Bunge la mwanachi dismissed the footage as a misrepresentation of lawful operations, accusing the former DP of exploiting security issues for political gain.
Ultimatum Issued
The group gave Gachagua 72 hours to apologize or face legal action for “endangering national cohesion.” This mirrors Bunge’s recent petition demanding his arrest over similar allegations about Kenya’s role in Sudan’s civil war
Gachagua’s claims, made during a U.S. speech, follow weeks of protests marked by violent clashes. Human rights groups report 31 fatalities, while police cite 11 deaths . Opposition figures have dismissed Bunge’s demands as “political theater,” but analysts note the movement’s growing influence in holding leaders accountable .
Pressure mounts on Gachagua to substantiate his claims, even as civil society groups push for independent probes into police conduct. The government maintains that all security operations adhere to the rule of law .
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