Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has strongly criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his recent remarks on the June 25 Gen Z anniversary protests, accusing him of spreading propaganda and attempting to mislead Kenyans through what he described as politically calculated statements.

Addressing the media on behalf of the Centre for Human Rights and Democracy Eldoret, Ngetich dismissed Gachagua's claims that the government had allegedly planned to sponsor violence during the June 25 demonstrations, terming the allegations baseless and intended to create unnecessary fear among members of the public.

"The Centre for Human Rights and Democracy Eldoret wishes to condemn in the strongest terms possible the claims made by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that the government had planned violence during the June 25 Gen Z anniversary protests. Gachagua is a master of deceit, propaganda and political manipulation," Ngetich said.

According to the activist, Gachagua has consistently used inflammatory political rhetoric to advance his personal interests, arguing that his latest statements were part of a broader strategy to portray himself as a victim while shifting public attention away from what Ngetich described as his own political conduct.

Ngetich further alleged that it was contradictory for Gachagua to publicly claim he had advised business owners in the Mt. Kenya region to close their businesses because of anticipated violence while, at the same time, the government had already deployed adequate security personnel and put in place elaborate measures aimed at maintaining law and order.

"He now wants Kenyans to believe that he single-handedly saved Kikuyu business people and youths from destruction. That is a carefully crafted political narrative meant to sanitize his public image and create the impression that he prevented violence. The truth is that the government had already activated its security machinery to deal with any criminal elements who intended to infiltrate peaceful demonstrations," Ngetich claimed.

The human rights activist alleged that security agencies successfully prevented individuals who may have intended to exploit the protests for criminal activities, adding that this frustrated those who had allegedly hoped to use the demonstrations to create political instability.

He claimed that Gachagua's subsequent statements were an attempt to distance himself from any potential acts of violence while simultaneously claiming credit for maintaining peace.

According to Ngetich, Gachagua's assertion that he had received intelligence from police officers suggesting that the government was planning violence was intended to create the impression that he still enjoys influence within government and the country's security agencies despite no longer holding public office.

"His claims are calculated to make Kenyans believe that he still controls or has access to confidential government security information. That is misleading and intended to project political relevance," he said.

Ngetich also accused the former deputy president of using ethnic identity as a political shield whenever he comes under criticism.

"He has perfected the politics of presenting himself as the defender of the Mt. Kenya community whenever questions are raised about his conduct. This is a dangerous form of tribal politics that has the potential to divide Kenyans instead of uniting them," he stated.

The activist alleged that leaders who use ethnic mobilization and political propaganda risk undermining national cohesion and peaceful coexistence, warning that Kenya's democratic progress depends on responsible leadership and respect for constitutional institutions.

Ngetich further argued that political leaders should refrain from making statements that could heighten public anxiety, especially during periods of political tension, noting that unverified allegations against state institutions could erode public confidence and fuel unnecessary divisions.

"The security agencies have a constitutional responsibility to protect all Kenyans regardless of their political affiliation, ethnicity or religion. There is no justification for creating a narrative that the government would deliberately organize violence against its own citizens. Police officers themselves are sons, daughters, brothers and sisters from communities across Kenya. Their mandate is to protect lives and property," he said.

He called on politicians to exercise restraint in their public utterances and instead encourage peaceful engagement, dialogue and respect for the rule of law.

Ngetich also urged Kenyans, particularly the youth, not to allow themselves to be manipulated by politicians pursuing personal or partisan interests.

"Our young people should not be used as instruments for political confrontation. They should remain peaceful, demand accountability through lawful means and reject any attempts by leaders to exploit them for political gain," he said.

The Centre for Human Rights and Democracy Eldoret further called on investigative and security agencies to remain vigilant against any individuals or groups that may seek to incite violence or disrupt public order under the guise of political activism.

The organization emphasized that peaceful demonstrations are protected under the Constitution but warned that criminal elements should not be allowed to hijack legitimate protests or endanger the lives and property of innocent Kenyans.

Ngetich concluded by urging all political leaders to place national unity above partisan politics, saying Kenya's stability should never be sacrificed for individual political ambitions.

"We appeal to all leaders to embrace responsible politics, promote peace and respect democratic institutions. Kenya belongs to all of us, and safeguarding peace and national cohesion should remain our collective responsibility," he said.