Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has broken his silence on the shocking death of Father John Maina Ndegwa, the parish priest of Igwamiti Parish in Nyandarua County.
In a statement , Gachagua has said that the outspoken cleric had voiced deep concerns about the state of the nation just weeks before his untimely demise.
Gachagua described Father Maina as a close friend and spiritual counsellor, recalling a powerful sermon the priest delivered during his silver jubilee celebration on April 27, 2025 just two weeks before his death.
“Fr. Maina was a personal friend and a trusted counsellor. We had several conversations on issues of national interest. During his sermon, he didn’t hold back, he spoke truth to power with courage and clarity,” Gachagua said in a heartfelt tribute on Wednesday, May 21.
The priest’s body was discovered on May 15 along the Nakuru-Nairobi highway near the Diatomite stage by a motorcycle rider.
The rider reported that Fr. Maina appeared disoriented and injured, telling him he had been abducted from Nyahururu.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed that the rider rushed the injured cleric to St. Joseph’s Mission Hospital in Gilgil. Despite efforts to save him, Fr. Maina succumbed to his injuries shortly after admission.
Preliminary autopsy results revealed bruises on the priest’s head, although investigators noted these were unlikely to be the direct cause of death.
Toxicology samples have been taken for further analysis as detectives pursue multiple leads.
DCI officers suspect Fr. Maina was targeted by individuals demanding a share of donations allegedly made during the jubilee event, which had been attended by Gachagua and other political figures.
The former Deputy President has now called on security agencies to fast-track investigations and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“I urge authorities to act swiftly. Those behind this heinous act must be found and held accountable,” Gachagua said.
By Kenyans