Latest stories tagged “Gachagua”
Kenyan President William Ruto has publicly rejected claims made by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that he was responsible for delivering votes from the Mt Kenya region in the 2022 elections. This statement comes amid rising tensions in Kenyan politics, particularly surrounding the disruption of the Linda Mwananchi rally and the lead-up to the 2027 elections, which will involve significant political figures.
President William Ruto has responded to assertions made by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, stating that he earned the votes from Embu on his own. Ruto also mentioned that a 35-year bond he has with the region predates his alliance with Gachagua, countering claims about the nature of their political support in Mt Kenya.
Rigathi Gachagua, the former Deputy President of Kenya, is reportedly transforming his residence in Wamunyoro, Nyeri County, into a political hub following his removal from office by parliament. Analysts suggest that Gachagua aims to leverage this transition to regain political capital by hosting various leaders and groups, thereby turning the embarrassment of his ousting into an opportunity for influence and support.
Political tensions have escalated between former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen as they exchanged accusations regarding the violence witnessed in Ol Kalou, Nyandarua County. The dispute has raised questions about the causes of the unrest, with each side blaming the other, amid rising political temperatures ahead of the by-election on July 16, 2026, and the general election in 2027. Gachagua claimed via a post on X that the government used police and gangs to disrupt activities of his Democracy party.
Rigathi Gachagua, the leader of the DCP party, has denied claims that he is supporting Kalonzo to challenge Ruto in the 2027 presidential race. Speaking in Nyeri, he stated that the opposition will not announce its presidential candidate early due to fears of government targeting and harassment. Gachagua indicated that the candidate will be revealed before the deadline set by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), but not hastily, allowing for an announcement anytime before May 15, 2027.
DCP Leader Rigathi Gachagua has expressed concerns regarding George Ruto's involvement in Nairobi's matatu sector, suggesting it reflects a strategy by President William Ruto to control the public transport industry. During a meeting with grassroots leaders on June 30, Gachagua claimed that vehicles associated with the president's son are starting to monopolize key transport points in the city, potentially sidelining local operators.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has warned that he will encourage Kenyans to stop paying taxes if President William Ruto's government continues what he describes as violence and persecution of citizens. Gachagua stated that peaceful resistance through a tax boycott would be considered if the situation does not improve, emphasizing that they would not resort to violence in their opposition.
Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), has warned Kenyans, particularly Gen Z protesters, against participating in planned commemoration protests, citing intelligence reports of a potential violent crackdown in the Mt. Kenya region. He expressed concerns for public safety following previous demonstrations that resulted in fatalities, urging citizens to stay away from the streets on Thursday.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto of orchestrating a "looting spree" through the newly proposed supplementary budget for 2025/26, alleging a diversion of Ksh 6.2 billion. Gachagua, a prominent critic of Ruto's government, claims the funds will be funneled through various government offices, including State House and the National Intelligence Service, disguised as maintenance and operations expenses.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has responded strongly to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's call for a boycott of musicians who visited him in Karen. Kindiki rejected the boycott and announced plans to invite "five hundred more" artists, expressing his determination during an economic empowerment program for small-scale traders.