Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has joined a growing chorus of voices demanding justice following the brutal killing of Fr. John Maina Ndegwa, a Catholic priest from Igwamiti Parish in Nyandarua.
In an emotional statement, Gachagua eulogized the fallen clergyman as “a personal friend and counsellor for a long time,” describing his death as “utterly painful.”
“Fr. John was a great soul and a shepherd of the Lord’s flock,” said Gachagua. “He lived in truth and spoke honestly without fear or favour—just as Christ would have done.”
Fr. Ndegwa, who was found unconscious and severely injured by the roadside on May 15, died upon arrival at St. Mary’s Hospital in Gilgil. Authorities suspect he was attacked elsewhere and later dumped at the scene.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has since revealed that he had previously confided about threats to his life, allegedly tied to a donation he received, but had not filed an official complaint.
DCI sources now believe the assailants may have targeted the priest over the funds, trailing him and eventually carrying out what Gachagua labeled a “heinous act.”
Just two weeks before his death, Fr. Ndegwa had hosted Gachagua during his silver jubilee celebrations, where the priest delivered what the former DP called “a powerful sermon” and boldly spoke on national issues.
“I met him several times, and we discussed matters of national interest,” Gachagua said, painting a picture of a deeply engaged and principled religious leader.
The slain priest’s death has left a deep void in the Nyandarua Catholic community. “I pass my deepest sympathies to the Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Nyahururu, the Catholic faithful of Igwamiti Parish, and the entire Catholic fraternity,” Gachagua stated.
He urged law enforcement to act swiftly: “I call upon the security agencies to speed up the investigation and bring the culprits to book.”
As the nation awaits answers, the legacy of Fr. Ndegwa—as a fearless truth-teller and spiritual guide—continues to echo among those he touched.
“I pray to Almighty God to rest the soul of Fr. John in eternal peace and perpetual light shine upon him forever,” Gachagua concluded.
