The incident occurred when Gachagua, accompanied by leaders affiliated with the United Opposition, arrived at Jogoo House seeking an audience with the police chief.
The delegation said they intended to raise concerns over what they described as rising cases of police brutality, selective enforcement of the law, and alleged harassment of opposition supporters during public gatherings.
According to opposition sources, a formal request for the meeting had been made earlier. However, upon arrival, security officers informed the group that the Inspector General was unavailable and could not receive them.
Tension briefly escalated as police blocked the delegation from entering the building, citing strict administrative procedures and lack of clearance.
What caught public attention, however, was the unexpected gesture that followed. As the leaders prepared to leave the premises, a senior uniformed officer enforcing the restriction stood to attention and saluted Gachagua and his colleagues.
The moment was captured on camera and quickly circulated online, sparking widespread debate.
Many Kenyans interpreted the salute as a subtle sign of respect for the former deputy president’s office, while others viewed it as quiet dissent within the security services amid growing political tension.
Many Kenyans interpreted the salute as a subtle sign of respect for the former deputy president’s office, while others viewed it as quiet dissent within the security services amid growing political tension.
Supporters of the opposition praised the officer’s gesture, calling it a reminder that professionalism still exists within the police ranks.
Addressing the media shortly after, Gachagua accused the government of weaponising the police to intimidate political opponents.
Addressing the media shortly after, Gachagua accused the government of weaponising the police to intimidate political opponents.
He argued that denying the opposition access to the Inspector General reflected deeper institutional problems, claiming key public offices were increasingly being used to serve political interests rather than the public.
The opposition delegation further warned that what they termed “selective policing” could erode public trust in law enforcement and undermine constitutional freedoms, especially the right to assemble and express dissent.
Police officials, however, defended their actions, insisting that access to the Inspector General’s office follows strict protocols and cannot be granted on short notice.
The opposition delegation further warned that what they termed “selective policing” could erode public trust in law enforcement and undermine constitutional freedoms, especially the right to assemble and express dissent.
Police officials, however, defended their actions, insisting that access to the Inspector General’s office follows strict protocols and cannot be granted on short notice.
They dismissed allegations of political bias, maintaining that the National Police Service remains neutral and focused on maintaining law and order.
Despite the official explanation, the senior officer’s salute has added a powerful layer of symbolism to the unfolding political standoff, fueling fresh debate about loyalty, professionalism, and accountability within Kenya’s security institutions.
Despite the official explanation, the senior officer’s salute has added a powerful layer of symbolism to the unfolding political standoff, fueling fresh debate about loyalty, professionalism, and accountability within Kenya’s security institutions.