The arrest of Mukurweini Member of Parliament John Kaguchia has brought fresh attention to the ongoing investigations targeting political leaders accused of making controversial public remarks.
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested the lawmaker on Monday morning, August 3, after he spent the night inside the Royal Media Services headquarters in Nairobi, saying he feared he would be arrested if he left the premises.
The MP had appeared on Inooro TV’s Kiririmbi programme on Sunday evening before claiming that plain-clothed security officers had surrounded the media house shortly after the interview ended.
Through a social media post, Kaguchia alleged that several unmarked Subaru vehicles had been deployed around the building and that police officers had set up roadblocks with the intention of arresting him.In his post, the legislator maintained that he would not be intimidated despite the heavy security presence outside the media station.
He said he had received information suggesting that his arrest was imminent and decided to remain inside the building overnight rather than leave.
Witnesses reported seeing security officers stationed outside the Royal Media Services headquarters throughout the night.
There were also reports that roadblocks had been mounted along Dennis Pritt Road, with some motorists being stopped and searched. Although these reports were widely shared, there was no official confirmation on whether the roadblocks had been specifically set up in connection with Kaguchia.
On Monday morning, detectives moved in and arrested the MP at the media house. He is expected to be taken to the DCI regional headquarters on Valley Road in Nairobi for questioning as investigations continue.
Before his arrest, Kaguchia said detectives were investigating comments he allegedly made during a political rally in Kieni, Nyeri County. He also accused several state operatives, including government digital strategist Dennis Itumbi, of spreading what he described as false information that eventually led to his arrest.
Kaguchia, who is an ally of Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua, has recently come under increased public attention following remarks he made during a political rally on Saturday, August 1.
The comments were interpreted by investigators as suggesting that residents of the Mt Kenya region would face consequences if they supported President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election.
His arrest comes at a time when authorities have stepped up action against politicians accused of making statements that could fuel political tension.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) is currently pursuing investigations involving several senior political figures, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, and Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku. The latest developments signal continued efforts by investigative agencies to examine public remarks made by political leaders as the country moves closer to the next General Election.
