Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is facing mounting criticism from top government officials following his recent remarks suggesting potential unrest after the 2027 General Election.

The comments, which have been widely condemned as inflammatory, have prompted stern warnings from senior state officers, including Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.

Speaking during an interdenominational Sunday service at Amagoro Primary School in Teso North, Busia County, Deputy President Kindiki described Gachagua’s remarks as reckless and dangerous. He likened those who incite post-election violence to bandits and terrorists operating in parts of Northern Kenya, vowing that the government would not tolerate any attempts to destabilize the country.

“Anyone preaching violence is as dangerous as bandits in the North Rift or terrorists in Lamu and Northern Kenya,” said Kindiki. “We will not allow anyone to shed blood in Kenya. As government, we are committed to ensuring that the 2027 elections will be free, fair, and reflective of the will of the people, as demanded by the Constitution.”

Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen also took a hardline stance, warning Gachagua that no one is above the law. Addressing a separate gathering, Murkomen said the government would closely monitor political actors and would not hesitate to take legal action against those inciting ethnic division or violence.

“There are individuals who think they are untouchable — that they cannot be arrested. Let me be clear: under our watch, we will not condone anyone who attempts to burn this country,” said Murkomen. “From today, we will monitor all your meetings, day and night.”

Murkomen further accused the former Deputy President of promoting hate speech, saying that law enforcement agencies would initiate a crackdown on individuals spreading division across the country.

The backlash appears to be part of a broader, coordinated response from leaders aligned with the current government. In both Siaya and Busia counties, various leaders echoed calls for Gachagua to be held accountable for what they termed “irresponsible” and “dangerous” rhetoric.

Seme MP James Nyikal, Emgwen MP Josses Lelmengit Koech, and Teso South MP Mary Emase were among those who condemned Gachagua, demanding swift action from security agencies.

“Gachagua is trivializing the violence of the 2007 post-election crisis by comparing it to a Christmas holiday. That’s unacceptable. He must face legal consequences for his utterances,” said one MP.

“This broad-based government was formed to promote unity and stability. We cannot allow anyone to sow seeds of division,” added Mary Emase.

The remarks from Gachagua, who currently leads the Democratic Consolidation Party (DCP), have sparked public debate and heightened political tensions. While Gachagua is yet to publicly respond to the warnings, political observers say the government’s response signals a renewed crackdown on inflammatory political speech ahead of the 2027 elections.