The bishop of ACK wants an apology, the police involved in the violence during the visit to Gachagua to be charged

• Bishop Gerald Muriithi condemned what was alleged to be a police attack at the ACK Witima Church during a service
• The attack disrupted worship services and left worshipers in a state of emotional shock after police fired tear gas and fired shots.
• Muriithi made five demands to the relevant authorities, including an apology from all those involved in the attack

The Bishop of Mount Kenya West, Gerald Mwangi Muriithi, has expressed regret following the police attack on the ACK Witima Church on Sunday, January 25.

It is alleged that the attack was carried out by “15 rebel police officers collaborating with thugs” with the aim of harming the former vice president, Rigathi Gachaguawho was among the believers.

How did Muriithi respond to the attack on the ACK Witima Church?

Speaking in a press release on Monday, January 26, Muriithi said the attack left worshipers shocked and confused, contrary to their expectations of spiritual comfort.

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“Yesterday was the darkest day in the history of our church. While the service was going on, hooligans and police officers arrived and started attacking the church, throwing tear gas bombs and shooting fire bullets directly at the believers. This caused panic and fear among the believers,” he said.

According to Muriithi, the attack violated the right of believers to worship freely, while the church ministers were also threatened.

He noted that youths who were throwing stones and carrying blunt weapons had confronted the police.

“This clearly shows the abuse of the security forces for personal gain. We strongly condemn this barbaric and inhuman act committed against our church by thugs and the police,” he said, stressing that two police cars were used in the attack.

He emphasized that disrupting the church service is a criminal offense according to the Penal Code.

What does the ACK church demand after the attack?

Muriithi asked the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, to conduct a quick and thorough investigation, and ensure that all those found guilty are brought to justice.

The church also wanted respect and protection for all places of worship, called on political leaders to develop tolerance for the peace and stability of the country, and stressed that people with differences should not use churches to resolve them.

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“We also demand an apology from all security agencies involved with any political leader who may have been involved in this criminal and shameful act,” he said.

Meanwhile, following the attack, several leaders including Kalonzo Musyoka of Wiper party and Deputy President Kithur Kindiki they condemned the incident.

Why was Rigathi Gachagua attacked in the church?

In related news, the Kiambu senator, Karungo wa Thang’wa, claimed that the officers targeted Gachagua in the church because it is a closed area.

He also claimed that the attackers targeted the church to create fear, and because there are not many people who can face them inside compared to public meetings.

Karungo added to claim that Gachagua is being targeted politically due to his strong support and influence in the Mt Kenya area, something that allegedly angers his main political opponent, the President William Ruto.

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Source: TUKO.co.ke