Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s attempt to be interviewed live for his Mt Kenya stronghold on Sunday night collapsed the last minute after two Kikuyu TV stations declined to interview him at his Mathira home.
Gachagua had initially requested to be interviewed by the Royal Media Services (RMS) owned Inooro TV. The planned interview however collapsed at the last minute after RMS chairman SK Macharia vetoed the idea.
The former DP then approached Kameme TV. This plan also failed after the Kenyatta family which owns Media Max Limited, the operator of Kameme TV insisted that the former DP had to show up at the Kameme TV studios along Kijabe Street in Nairobi if he wanted the interview to take place.
Gachagua, who had gotten used to media crew coming to his residence whenever they wanted an interview when he was DP could not believe that he was being asked to drive from his Mathira home in Nyeri to a television studio 200 kilometres away in Nairobi.
Consequently, the interview collapsed as a result of the stand off.
Gachagua has since last Friday been spending time at his Mathira home where he retreated to on the eve of Prof Kithure Kindiki’s swearing in as Deputy President.
“Home Sweet Home! Thanking God for the gift of my family,” he wrote on Friday as shared a picture of his family including his wife Dorcas Gachagua and their two sons.
“The smell of fresh grass, the sounds of chirping birds—that’s what a happy family needs. I will remain forever grateful to God for giving me a loving and supportive family. We are happy to be home, where I was born and brought up!”
Gachagua, who was impeached on October 17, said he looks forward to reconnecting with nature and the simplicity of rural life.
“I can’t wait for the morning to take my walk in Hombe Forest, enjoy the beautiful scenery of Mt Kenya as I thank God for His kindness,” he added, painting a picture of a peaceful return to his roots.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is facing a historic moment as the 67-member Senate begins hearing his proposed motion for removal from office by impeachment.
President William Ruto has distanced himself from the woes facing his Deputy Rigathi Gachagua following an impeachment motion tabled by Kibwezi West Member of Parliament Mwengi Mutuse.
Despite the incessant push by Gachagua’s allies for the President’s intervention to alleviate the matter, he remained silent on the issue.
Attending a church service at AIC Milimani, Nairobi, the President steered off such talks in a move that has left tongues wagging following the end of the public participation exercise on the impeachment motion.
Instead, he reaffirmed that his administration will not impose regulations on religious activities in the country, emphasizing the constitutional guarantee of freedom of worship.
President Ruto underscored that any reforms to regulate religious institutions should be driven by the institutions themselves, as recommended by the Presidential Taskforce chaired by Rev. Mutava Musyimi.
The task force, which was established to provide a policy framework for addressing religious extremism, sects, cults, and similar organizations, was formed in response to the gaps identified in the current legal framework.
“I urge those with ideas to allow religious leaders to define how they wish to regulate themselves and how religious organizations will proceed, as recommended by the task force I appointed under Rev. Mutava Musyimi,” President Ruto stated.
The President encouraged stakeholders to respect the Constitution when proposing policies on self-regulation and government oversight of religious organizations.
The Mutava-led task force was formed in May 2023, following the discovery of mass graves in Shakahola Forest, Kilifi County, where the bodies of followers of Pastor Paul Mackenzie of the Good News International Church were found.
Mackenzie, a self-proclaimed preacher, is accused of leading hundreds of people to starve themselves to death.
“I want to remind those involved in this process that the Kenyan Constitution is explicit, and there will be no compromise or limitation on the freedom of worship,” Ruto stated firmly.
The President further assured that his government would protect freedom of worship and reject any legislative efforts that could curtail religious practices in Kenya.
“We will defend freedom of worship without compromise, and there will be no limitations imposed. I am aware of proposals from some quarters regarding the regulation of churches and religious activities,” he affirmed.
This comes amid the introduction of a proposed bill aimed at regulating religious organizations. Under the bill, religious leaders operating unregistered organizations could face a fine of Sh5 million, three years in jail, or both.
The bill, sponsored by Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana, has already been introduced in the Senate for its first reading. It follows the Senate ad-hoc committee’s investigation into the mass deaths in Shakahola, linked to religious extremists.
The Religious Organizations Bill of 2024 proposes a legal framework with punitive measures for unregistered religious institutions and fraudulent operators.
“A person shall not establish, manage, or operate a religious organization or assist in such activities unless the organization is registered,” the bill states.
It also targets religious leaders who exploit followers using manipulative prayers and fake miracles for financial gain, proposing a fine of Sh5 million or up to 10 years in prison for such acts.
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The bill highlights the fragmented nature of current regulations, noting that there is no central authority to enforce compliance.
It proposes that religious organizations be eligible for registration if supported by at least 25 individuals of the same faith and endorsed by an umbrella religious body.
Additionally, organizations must belong to an umbrella body supported by at least 25 other registered religious organizations.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has condemned what he describes as the use of the criminal justice system to manage political affairs.
“President William Ruto and I, on assuming Office, gave an undertaking to the People of Kenya that never again shall the criminal justice system be called upon to help in the management of politics. I am embarrassed that we are back to where we were.”
“Harassment of my Office staff and Members of Parliament perceived to be close to me, has been going on for the last two months.”
This follows recommendations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to charge his close allies for their alleged role in organizing anti-government protests witnessed in June.
In a statement issued via his X handle, the Deputy President accused unnamed individuals of plotting to associate him with the violent protests to pave the way for possible impeachment proceedings.
Embakasi North MP James Gakuya and Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru as well as three individuals from Gachagua’s office could face charges if the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) approves the DCI’s recommendations.
“I have learnt of a scheme to prefer trumped-up charges against three members of my staff and the MPs for Embakasi North Hon James Gakuya and Embakasi Central Hon Benjamin Gathiru MejjaDonk,” Gachagua stated
“This evil scheme is to associate them with violent demonstrations that took place in late June, in a futile attempt to soil my name and hopefully create grounds for the mooted impeachment proceedings against me,” he added.
The Deputy President further claimed that the plan to blame him for the protests is intended to divert attention from the real issues affecting Kenyans.
“Kenyans are intelligent people. They know what factors made Kenyans take to the streets. Kenyans also know what the real problems in Kenya are. They surely know Rigathi is not among them. Let our agencies remain professional, follow the rule of law and keep off politics,” he said.
The DCI is seeking to charge Mwangi, Gakuya, George Theuri (former Embakasi West MP), Martin Ngunjiru Wambugu (former Nyeri Town MP), and Pius G. Munene with conspiracy to commit a felony, contrary to Section 393 of the Penal Code.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has recommended charges against two Nairobi MPs and three others all allied to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua after an inquiry into their alleged role in planning, mobilizing, and financing anti-government protests across the country in June 2024.
In a letter to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), DCI’s Abdallah Komesha said investigations established that Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru Mwangi, also known as Mejja Donk, and Embakasi North MP James Mwangi Gakuya participated in meetings at a Nairobi hotel where the protests were allegedly orchestrated.
The MPs were summoned for questioning on July 31, 2024, and although they recorded statements, the DCI says they allegedly refused to hand over their mobile phones for forensic examination.
The DCI is now seeking to charge Mwangi, Gakuya, George Theuri (former Embakasi West MP), Martin Ngunjiru Wambugu (former Nyeri Town MP), and Pius G. Munene with conspiracy to commit a felony, contrary to Section 393 of the Penal Code.
The investigative agency also recommends charges of soliciting or inciting others to commit an offense, conspiracy to commit a felony, and money laundering against Mwangi.
“Efforts are being made to obtain all financial data from FRC, Safaricom and banks where financial transactions were carried out,” said the DCI.
The ODPP is analyzing the file before he decides on the matter, officials said.
It comes in the wake of alleged plans to impeach the DP over among others violations of the laws.
He has denied the claims on his aides and allies and termed it a political betrayal.
President William Ruto had previously termed the Gen Z-led demos as a peaceful process that had been hijacked by organised criminals, promising to bring the financiers to book.
Police are investigating their alleged role in financing the violent protests and looting of businesses in Nairobi and parts of Central Kenya.
Police claim the individuals organized goons who raided shops and other premises to loot as Gen Z staged protests in the city.
Dozens of people who participated in the protests, especially on June 25 have been charged with various charges.
The protests were initially peaceful before goons invaded and started to loot property.
The mainly Gen-Z-led demonstrations took the government by surprise, with President William Ruto declining to sign the bill.
Discontent over the already high cost of living spiralled into nationwide protests, sparked by proposed tax hikes in the annual finance bill, which was however rejected.
Protest organizers called for the police to be held accountable for the shooting incidents.
More than 60 people were killed and 400 wounded in the chaos.
Senior Advisor in the Council of Economic Advisors (CEA) Moses Kuria on Wednesday reshared a letter that he had written to besieged Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua back in June highlighting 10-key issues that he needed answered before he could join his ‘Murima’ bandwagon.
Key among the issues raised by the vocal politician is a claim that Rigathi had demanded Sh10 billion from President Ruto to sanitize the ‘ground’.
“When the cost of living was high and there was discontent on the ground, you went to the President and demanded he gives you cash Ksh 10 Billion to go fix the ground in Mt Kenya. When it was denied you now throw tantrums. How would the cash have benefitted the people of Mt Kenya?” Kuria revealed.
Kuria also revealed that Gachagua stopped taking tea from Statehouse for fear that he would be poisoned.
“Now you have refused to even have a cup of tea in State House saying you fear you will be poisoned. Make me understand how you now expect us to feel safe coming to your Karen Residence for Cabinet Committee meetings. Won’t you also poison us now that you have a good idea of how poisoning works?” He said.
Questions and allegations
Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana this week filed a censure motion against the DP and one of the issues he raised was Rigathi’s allegiance and obsession with Mount Kenya politics that made him ignore other regions and seen as a tribal king. In the letter by Kuria, he poses several questions to the DP pertaining the same issue.
Here’s part of the letter.
As we headed towards the General Elections of 2022 | pleaded with you about the need to join the Kenya Kwanza Alliance through a Mt Kenya Party like Chama Cha Kazi. You told me off and even mobilised everybody to decam-paign against me, Kabogo & Kiunjuri and our party candidates. Only Kiunjuri survived your evil scheme. Now after UDA formed government you want our people to leave UDA and government and join your party. This is pure Ukora and selfishness. You want to lock the Gichegu when the mbuzi has already left.
President Ruto appointed me CS against your wishes. You said we can’t have another mlevi like Uhuru. Uhuru whom you are professing love for
You pressed President Ruto repeatedly to have me fired. When you failed you succeed in having me transferred from the Ministry of Investments, Trade & Industry because you thought my efforts in poverty reduction, Jobs creation and wealth creation were too dangerous for your plans
Since September 2022 to date you have been receiving the Mt Kenya share of appointments.
Even the ones for Ministries under the CSs from Mt Kenya. We only come to know that we have
‘appointed’ someone from the Kenya Gazette.
Now you have exhausted the appointments and you want us to andamana with you for you are being oppressed
Whereas all the rest of us are busy in our dock-ets, you do zero work in terms of the priorities of the President and the government. The President works 24 by 7 alone yet you are so idle that you spend entire day politicking or filling out tender forms.bi wonder how you can run a government yet you know absolutely nothing of how government operates.
You have never stepped out of Nyeri save for few forays into Mt Kenya East. How can you lead us? Are you not the safest route towards 41 against 1 isolation of our community? Is this the legacy you want to bequeath our Gen Z majority?
You have lost the trust and friendship of 90% of elected and appointed leaders in Mt Kenya region. How can you lead them?
Kuria in his attack on the DP concluded by questioning the end game of Rigathi as he fights to isolate the Mt Kenya from others in his wisdom.
“Finally, where are you taking our people? Assume you even get 100% of Mt Kenya, what next? What’s the end game? Will you vie for President in 2027? Which other voting block other than Mt Kenya will you team up with ? Who will trust you ? Are you not being reckless and irresponsible with the political destiny of our people? Other than cheating them to change from Hustler to Villager what other vision do you have for them? Are we going to feed our people on slogans like Hustle and Villager for ever just like Tibim and Tialala? What about the roads, water, schools, water, jobs, businesses that we promised them? When you cry to them about you being treated unfairly do you want them to eat you for dinner tonight?” Kuria posed.
Rigathi impeachment motion ready
The impeachment motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua could be tabled in Parliament anytime now, with reports suggesting it is ready and had attained necessary support from Members of Parliament.
Sources said signatures were coming in “fast and furious”, saying more than 116 lawmakers have signed. While some have threatened on social media that the plan could be set rolling in two weeks, insiders told The Standard that President William Ruto’s allies want the motion tabled before the President returns from his US trip.
The President is expected back on Saturday, meaning the impeachment motion could be tabled by today if the timelines promised are to be followed, given MPs do not sit on Friday.
Sources say the motion could be tabled today, having been endorsed by more than a third of the lawmakers from across the political divide. Others, on condition of anonymity, said it would be tabled next week, as the subject was too sensitive to be rushed and that they did not want to afford Gachagua any loopholes.
Yesterday, an MP from Mt Kenya claimed Leader of Minority at the National Assembly Junet Mohammed received instructions from ODM leader Raila Odinga to rally ODM Mps to support the impeachment motion after it is tabled. The instructions came via phone from New York where Raila is accompanying President Ruto.
The political woes facing Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua took a different turn on Monday, with Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana filing a censure motion against the number two in command.
Mr Mungatana filed the motion with Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, accusing Mr Gachagua of conducting himself in a manner that does not befit the stature of the office the DP holds.
The lawmaker has taken issue with what he terms as Mr Gachagua’s “regional focus” yet he is a member of Kenya’s presidency and should focus on and serve the entire country.
Unlike an impeachment motion that seeks to remove an office holder, debate on a censure motion involves members expressing strong opinions of disapproval against the targeted individual.
Mr Mungatana’s motion, if approved, will see lawmakers discuss his conduct in the plenary of the Senate.
“I have today September 23, 2024, filed a motion of censure against the holder of office of the Deputy President because of conduct unbecoming of that office,” Mr Mungatana said at a press conference at Parliament Buildings.
“This is a censure motion which I have filed with the office of Senate speaker. Once approved, it shall be tabled in the House, and the senators will debate the censure motion against the DP.”
He said the censure motion would strongly show disapproval with the conduct of Mr Gachagua whom he accused of behaving as if he is the deputy president of Mt Kenya region.
“We must remind him that he is the DP for Kenya and not one region. I and the people of Tana River are aggrieved in the manner the DP has been conducting himself,” Mr Mungatana said.
“What happened to the oath of office that the DP took? He is only fighting for one region. I think the Senate is the right place to censure the DP.”
He said the constitution is clear in that one cannot be a holder of national office and be a leader of a county or a region.
DP Rigathi Gachagua during a recent media interview at his Karen residence.
Mr Mungatana accused Mr Gachagua of behaving as a co-president instead of working as the principal assistant to President William Ruto.
The censure motion comes in the wake of Mr Gachagua last week painted a strained relationship with his boss.
Speaking on Citizen TV interview on Friday, September 20, Mr Gachagua said any move to remove him — which he said could only come from the President himself—could destabilise the country.
In the TV interview, Mr Gachagua opened up about a plot to impeach him even as he revealed that such a motion can only come to Parliament and can only pass upon the express approval of his boss, President Ruto.
He laid bare the power struggle that has rocked the two-year-old Kenya Kwanza administration, talking about plans to frustrate his involvement in government function.
In what appears to be an escalation of political tension in the country, leaders within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) continued their infighting on Friday.
The flare-ups, driven by supremacy battles in the populous Mt. Kenya region, are intensifying as the country moves closer to the next General Election in three years.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is seen as the central figure in the unfolding drama, with National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and other dissenting leaders opposing his leadership style.
While Gachagua rallied in Nairobi, drawing crowds in city markets, he challenged his opponents to confront him directly rather than plotting against him behind his back.
“Quit plotting in secret and confront me directly. I was elected by the people, and I’m here to stay,” Gachagua said, addressing the threat of impeachment from some Members of Parliament.
Ichung’wah, never one to shy away from opposing Gachagua, moments after his rallies, referenced the infamous invasion of Parliament during the youth-led Generation Z protests on June 25, 2024.
In a thinly veiled remark aimed at Gachagua and his allies, the Kikuyu MP questioned whether they were regrouping to incite violence in the country.
“While I was away…. The OWNERS, FINANCIERS, and EXECUTORS of the 25th June attempted civilian coup have regrouped,” Ichung’wah took to X.
During the peak of protests demanding better governance and accountability, five associates of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua were interrogated by detectives regarding their involvement in the unrest that swept the nation.
Gachagua’s allies claimed the questioning was a state tactic to intimidate them into withdrawing support for the Deputy President.
While Gachagua remained silent on the issue, his supporters were vocal about their belief that the government aimed to undermine him.
Ichung’wah convinced that Gachagua may have played a role in the chaos to discredit President William Ruto and his administration, asserted that the “treasonous criminals” were out to disrupt again.
“If you were looking for the TREASONOUS criminals who infiltrated the otherwise peaceful and legit demos, look no further! Are they planning a new round of violence? Can’t place it far from them.”
In unrestrained rallies across Nairobi, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua asserted that government forces were sent to intimidate him, but he pledged to stand firm.
Facing accusations of promoting tribal politics, Gachagua has found himself isolated by some leaders from his home region, who have rejected him as their political leader.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja on Friday, September 20, 2024, hit out at the embattled Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, telling him to keep Nairobi residents out of his politics.
Sakaja, who remarked that he had avoided a confrontation with Gachagua for a long time, indicated that he had been moved to speak out after the second in command held a meeting in the heart of the city and reportedly misinformed traders speaking in his vernacular.
“I have for long avoided responding to the Deputy President’s tribal diatribe, but today’s activities leave me no choice. This morning, in a misinformed tribal diatribe, and while speaking in vernacular in the heart of our nation’s capital, you have chosen to use falsehoods to incite traders against the measures we are taking,” Sakaja remarked.
This comes just days after Gachagua advised Sakaja against a planned relocation of traders from the Wakulima Market in the city, noting that he had been receiving complaints since he had guaranteed them that their businesses would not be disrupted.
“My younger brother Governor Johnson Sakaja, traders from Wakulima Market, Nairobi County, have called me and reminded me of the undertaking you and I jointly gave them in July 2022 as I campaigned for you in Muthurwa,” Gachagua said on September 12, 2024, adding: “Kindly, do consider having a sitting with the leadership of the market to agree on whatever changes your government desires without adversely affecting their livelihoods.”
Sakaja responded by telling Gachagua that he had his phone number and that he could easily call him to discuss the issues.
However, Sakaja now states that Gachagua has yet to reach out to resolve the contentious matters that had arisen from the city decongestion exercise.
“To Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua I say: If only you had taken your phone and called me as I had suggested, you would have learnt a few things,” Sakaja stated.
Adding: “What we will not allow are traders endangering their lives by selling their wares on the roadside. They will move to Kangundo Road Market. However, if you have sufficient space outside your office on Harambee Avenue, I am sure they will be happy to display their wares and ply their trade in that safe environment.”
The Nairobi governor also clarified that traders at the Marikiti market would not be affected by the displacement, noting that only selected produce would be delivered to the other markets to help with decongestion efforts.
He emphasised that his government would not be engaged in politics at the expense of the safety of traders in the city, noting that traders selling their wares along the roads risked danger from vehicles.
“We agreed on these and other measures that will ease congestion in the market and improve the safety and welfare of our traders and citizens. We will not allow you to take us back,” Sakaja noted.
Adding: “Nairobi is a cosmopolitan global hub that will operate in an orderly manner. I can assure you of that. I know you are dealing with other weighty and impending political issues. Keep the people of Nairobi out of it.”
The simmering tensions within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), have now escalated to a full-blown scale.
Nairobi governor Johnson Sakaja, who has been under the scope of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has fired salvo at the besieged DP, who has been under attack from opposing factions in the ruling party.
Sakaja has told Rigathi to respect President Ruto and other elected leaders, including himself, and warned him to stop fighting Ruto.
Speaking to over 7,000 UDA grassroots delegates, Sakaja who’s vying for the Chairmanship in Nairobi, emphasized his determination to remain undeterred by those opposing his candidacy.
He underscored the importance of strengthening the UDA in Nairobi to secure more seats in the upcoming elections compared to the last cycle.
Sakaja took a swipe at the UDA Deputy Party Leader, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of bullying leaders within the ruling coalition.
He said: “Huwezi kuwa you are bullying people for two years, then unatajwa wiki moja unaanza kulia. Do you know bullies are the biggest cowards?”
“Mpaka unaenda sijui kwa msitu, sijui wapi…if you want respect, respect other leaders. If you don’t respect those leaders, then respect the people who put them there.”
Sakaja went on to dare the DP to run for the Nairobi County governorship seat in the 2027 elections if he does not respect his capacity as an elected official.
“I’ve been through a lot and I’m not easily intimidated, nobody has the right to say I was given the seat. I was elected,” charged Sakaja.
“In 2027, you are free to run for any elective post, run and be Nairobi Governor.”
The Nairobi Governor meanwhile stressed that the party must elect leaders based on their agendas for the people rather than tribal affiliations.
Sakaja in his address said that he envisions a future where key positions such as Governors, Senators, Women Representatives, and half of Nairobi’s Members of County Assembly (MCAs) are held by UDA members.
Rejecting his critics as proponents of tribal politics, he reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling his gubernatorial duties.
Corruption
Sakaja’s administration has come under increasing criticism for alleged massive looting that has attracted major critics, including the DP, and it’s unsurprising that he seized the moment to go on a full attack on Rigathi.
Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi has dismissed a warning by United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Cleophas Malala over misconduct labeling him an “elevated MCA”.
Sudi, considered President William Ruto’s political enforcer, said Malala was suffering an “illusory superiority” in a response on Wednesday.
“[An] Elevated MCA suffering from illusory superiority, thinking he matches Raphael Tuju’s calibre,” Sudi responded, comparing his to SG of the former ruling Jubilee Party.
Malala had ordered Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, and Githunguri’s Gathoni Wa Muchomba to cease their attacks on the party leadership including the presidency, or have disciplinary action taken against them.
He said the recent public sentiments by the three members disrespected the leadership of the party they pledged to serve and were fueling disunity.
“Let this be a stern warning to desist from such actions with immediate effect. This behavior will not be tolerated within the realms of our party,” said Malala.
Malala, a former MCA and Senator, also warned Cabinet Secretaries Kipchumba Murkomen (Transport) and Moses Kuria (Public Service) asking them to cease political activity per the law.
He advised them to resign and join the political arena should they wish to pursue politics.
Malala warned young politicians in the party engaged in premature 2032 campaigns to stop such activities and focus on delivering service to the public.
“Early campaigning not only distracts from your responsibilities but also disrespects the trust placed in you by the electorate. Should you continue with these premature campaigns the party will take stern disciplinary action against you,” said Malala.
The call to order came following weeks of public attacks between two factions in the ruling UDA.
Siege on Gachagua
On May 26, Sudi rebuked Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s recent warning that Rift Valley MPs should refrain from engaging in Central Kenya politics.
Sudi said Gachagua had no authority to direct any politician or leader on where they should engage their politics in Kenya.
“You cannot control where I go. If we all stayed in our respective constituencies, then we would not be in government. We had to fly all over the country to ask Kenyans to elect this government,” he stated.
“I am not someone you can threaten,” Sudi declared saying he had had enough.
The lawmaker accused Gachagua’s faction of fostering division by restricting political leaders from touring other regions.
“I will continue meeting people even in Mount Kenya and doing harambees. I learned [this] from the president himself, and I will not stop,” he added.
Gachagua had taken the fight against the Sudi-led faction to the president’s stronghold warning “young politicians” against interfering in Central Kenya politics during a meeting in Kesses on May 25.
“The problem is a few leaders here from this region who have proximity to the President are the ones meddling with Central Kenya politics and involving themselves in premature 2032 succession,” Gachagua stated.
The DP launched the onslaught after emerging from a week-long absence from State function on May 19.
Kahiga who accompanied him to a church event at the time argued Mount Kenya region would not allow anyone to mistreat Gachagua.
He said the people elected Gachagua to his current position.
“I want to say here in front of everyone, we will not allow our son (Gachagua) to go through what Ruto went through in the hands of Uhuru Kenyatta. We will not allow our son to be mistreated. We will not,” Kahiga said.
State House has dismissed reports of strained relations between President William Ruto and his deputy Rigathi Gachagua.
State House spokesperson Hussein Mohammed who was responding to a question by one of the journalists during a press briefing on President William Ruto’s historic visit to the US said there was no issue between the two leaders.
The rumours have been fueled by the absence of the DP from key state functions.
Hussein said the office of the Deputy President has all the capabilities and competencies to respond to any questions regarding the second in command.
“There is no issue between the President and his Deputy. If you have a question or want to find anything about the DP, you can get the information from the Office of the Deputy President which has all the capabilities and competencies” he said.
This is not the first time such rumours are circulating. Last year, Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura termed similiar reports a “creation of the media” stating that the president and deputy are reading from the same script.
The DP on Sunday attended a church service at the Sacred Heart Endarasha Catholic Church, Kieni Constituency, Nyeri County.
President Ruto and the First Lady Mama Rachael will kick off their visit to the US on Monday.
“Tomorrow, President Ruto’s US visit will commence in Atlanta, Georgia, at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, then later visit the Ebenezer Baptist Church to pay homage to the civil rights struggle” said Hussein.
On Tuesday, in Atlanta, President Ruto will visit Spelman College, later go to Tyler Perry Studios to explore opportunities, and in the company of First Lady Rachel Ruto, attend a dinner hosted by the state’s mayor, Andre Dickens.
The culmination of the visit will be on Thursday, May 23, when the Kenyan leader will meet his host President Joe Biden.
“On Wednesday, President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto will travel to Washington, DC, where they will be officially received with full ceremonial state honors, later meet a congressional delegation, and hold discussions at Capital Hill” Hussein added.
Even as deputy president Rigathi Gachagua tries to unite Kiambu county leaders, their differences are growing daily over skewed allocation of development funds.
And on the spotlight is Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wa who stands accused of using his position as national assembly majority leader to favour his constituency in allocation of national government’s development kitty.
Ichung’wa is also being accused by Governor Kimani Wamatangi of using his position and closeness to William Ruto to fight other leaders.
The Kikuyu MP is said to harbour gubernatorial ambitions in the 2027 general election.
Last week, Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba raised the issue of skewed national government development agenda when she challenged Ichung’wa to explain why his constituency got the lion’s share of the money allocated for roads.
The combative MP wondered whether the resource allocation formula was fair given that her constituency, which has over 104,000 registered voters got less than Ichungwa’s Kikuyu which has 98,000 voters for constructing and maintenance of roads.
The MP referred to Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) 2023 tender notice where Kikuyu got Sh1,456,000,000 which is about 94.4pc out of the Kiambu county’s share of Sh1,541,890,000 from the national kitty.
She said the other 11 constituencies are to share 5.6pc of the funds.
Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba
The Githunguri lawmaker stated that KeRRA allocated Kikuyu 63pc of the total amount, which translates to Sh220 million out of the total Sh350 million allocated to all Kiambu’s 12 constituencies.
“Whereas I appreciate Kikuyu getting some development, we should be fair in the sharing. If we are rewarding number of votes, I think Githunguri had more loyalty voters than Kikuyu by over 6,000 whom Ruto should reward.
“No wonder some politicians have consistently frustrated our push for one man, one shilling policy so as to use their privileges over others,” the MP who referred to herself as Nyakang’a wa Githunguri said.
Last weekend, Gachagua was in Kiambu where he asked political leaders to concentrate on service delivery and desist from spreading propaganda and idle talk.
The deputy president also called on politicians from Kiambu county, to tone down on high octane politics and leadership wrangles and focus on working for their people.
Speaking at ACK St Mark’s New Kamiti Parish, in Kiambu Town constituency, Gachagua said leaders should focus on social and economic development instead of engaging in endless politicking.
“The president and I, are focused on the job. The other leaders should focus on their jobs and service delivery too. The country needs us and citizens have great expectations. Let all leaders focus on service delivery, that is what Kenyans expect from us,” he said.
“Some of us have no time for petty politics, we are busy people with a lot of work to do. We have no time to listen to nonsense, theatrics and drama. We want to focus on the job that we were given by Kenyans,” he added.
Gachagua spoke amid heightened political talk and activities across the political divide over the 2027 elections and declaration of political ambitions.
On Kiambu politics, the deputy president asked leaders to unite and work together, adding that he will soon convene a meeting to address their differences.
“It pains me a lot to see leaders tearing each other apart. I appeal to the leaders to work together for the development of the county. Kiambu is important to Ruto and I, as it gave us a lot of votes in 2022. I will convene a meeting to find a lasting solution on any squabbles. Please tone down on the high-octane politics,” he stated.
The deputy president spoke after a section of the county leaders engaged in an exchange of words at the event over the leadership of the devolved unit and gubernatorial aspirations.
The fundraiser, overseen by Humphrey Waweru, sought to raise Sh20 million for the completion of the church’s construction.
During the service, Gachagua commended the church for its positive influence on society.
Gachagua was accompanied by Kiambu governor Ichung’wa, Kimani Wamatangi, Juja MP George Koimburi, Kabete MP Githua Wamacukuru and Kiambu senator Karungo Thangwa, among other leaders.
Wamatangi stressed the need for integrated unity for the sake of development and rallied all leaders to support Gachagua’s unity efforts.
“We recognise Gachagua as our leader, we don’t have any other deputy president. Mt Kenya region will collaborate harmoniously to support Gachagua’s initiatives,” Wamatangi affirmed.
Ichung’wa pledged support for Gachagua and the president in implementing UDA’s manifesto.
He also urged Wamatangi to be accountable for public resources, citing concerns raised by the Auditor General regarding accountability in Kiambu.
Senator Thangwa echoed Ichungwa’s sentiments and urged MCAs to exercise their oversight roles and fulfill their mandates.
He expressed support for Gachagua as a unifying force particularly in Kiambu county and the whole of Mt Kenya region.
Koimburi expressed strong support for Gachagua’s development initiatives in the Mt Kenya region, highlighting the region’s appreciation for the deputy president’s efforts.
Embakasi North MP James Gakuya warned against Mt Kenya MPs being manipulated to oppose the deputy president.
Gakuya specifically addressed Mathioya MP Edwin Mugo’s actions during Gachagua’s visit to his constituency, stressing the need to respect Gachagua’s position.
Thika MP Alice Ng’ang’a echoed the sentiments and expressed unwavering support for Gachagua as the region’s kingpin.
Later the DP visited Stephen Ndung’u, a retired councilor in Tiekunu, Ndeiya Limuru constituency who mentored him.
The Office of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua now wants a whooping Sh2.6 billion in the 2024/2025 financial year with a huge chunk of the monies allocated to office refurbishment.
In the breakdown given before the National Assembly Administration and Internal Security, Sh1.12 billion is for the refurbishment of the offices with the Harambee Annex being allocated Sh460.4 million and Karen residences Sh660 million.
The committee members led by the Chair Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo questioned why huge allocation was being made to the refurbishment of the offices which were fairly new.
“Please tell us more about the renovations of the said offices because we have seen an allocation of Sh300.4 million. I know we have a few issues there like lifts not working but this figure is too big yet the building is not only ten years old?” questioned Tongoyo.
Principal Administrative Secretary Patrick Mwangi however explained that the facelift of the building was aimed at enhancing the security system within the building.
“The continuous lack of maintenance has necessitated a face lift targeting major functional areas and security systems of the building,” Mwangi said.
MPs also raised queries on the Sh 250M allocation for the purchase of medals, honors, and insignia.
An executive order number 2 of 2023 directed the re-organization of the government’s mandate at the Office of the Deputy President to coordinate the conferment of medals and awards through the national and county government advisory committee in line with the National Honors act 2023.
In particular, lawmakers raised questions on why the Office of the Deputy President had made such a huge allocation for the purchase of medals, honors, and insignia yet it wasn’t a necessity.
“On the Sh 250 million for the purchase of honors, medals and insignias, are we not becoming extravagant when you know the situation of this country,” he posed.
The Principal Administrative Secretary however stated that the actual honor, insignia, and medals awards haven’t been honored for a period of time due to budgetary situation.
“The office has however not presented the actual honor, insignia and medals awarded in December 2022 and June 2023. The office had requested an allocation of Sh 500 million in the financial year 2024/2025 budget to procure the medals but we received an allocation of Sh 250 million,” Mwangi said.
Documents tabled before MPs show that Sh 100 million has been allocated for the acquisition of motor vehicles despite Sh 100M being allocated in the previous financial year for the same purpose.
He explained part of the money was used to purchase vehicles for the big bosses with the requested allocation in this financial year being used to purchase vehicles for other junior officers.
“This Sh 100 million here takes care of our staff. Most of us are on uber and others have been using their own personal vehicles. It is the reality that, when attending meetings, I have allowed my staff to make claims on uber because our national vehicle fleet is used for national events and activities,” Mwangi stated.
Sh 250 million has been allocated for the implementation of alcohol drugs and substance abuse programs which was withdrawn under Article 223 which allows the government to spend monies outside the budget but seek regularization of the said monies in parliament later.
Other expenditures tabled include in the department include Sh 247.7 million for catering services, accommodation, gifts, food and drinks. Travel cost for both airline, bus, railway and mileage allowances Sh171.8 million.
Sh 301.5 million for boards, committees, conferences, and seminars and Sh 328.5 million for personal allowance.
