“Mahali Imefika Ninarudi Kenya” Gachagua Declares 'War' After Samburu Cattle Killing Using Bombs, Bullets

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has condemned the reported killing of hundreds of cattle in Samburu County, describing the incident as a serious attack on pastoralist communities.

Speaking from the United States after receiving distress calls from pastoralist elders, Gachagua alleged that security officers used bullets and explosives in an operation that resulted in the deaths of more than 700 cattle.

He said the loss of livestock had left families facing hardship because many depend on cattle for food, school fees and their daily livelihoods.

Gachagua also accused the government of failing to address longstanding grievances among the Maa community, particularly over land and natural resources.

“The Maa community is crying because William Ruto and his government have grabbed ancestral land in places like Kekonye, interfered with wildlife corridors in Maasai Mara, and now resorted to shooting their livestock,” Gachagua said.

He further alleged that the dispute could be connected to mineral resources in the affected areas, specifically mentioning lithium deposits.

Gachagua criticised leaders from Samburu, Narok and Kajiado, accusing some of remaining silent over the reported livestock killings. He praised leaders who had spoken out, including Senator Seki and other local representatives.

The former Deputy President said he would return to Kenya next month for consultations with elders and community representatives in Samburu, Narok, Kajiado, Laikipia and Marsabit.

Gachagua said his Democratic Change Party and its allies would support legal and political efforts by affected communities over land, property and cultural heritage.

He described the situation as having reached a point that required his direct involvement, saying, “Mahali imefika, ninarudi Kenya.”