DP Rigathi Gachagua Under Siege Amid Growing Fallout
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua finds himself at the center of a political storm, with tensions escalating within the highest ranks of the Kenyan government.
Reports from sources close to President William Ruto suggest growing frustration with Gachagua, particularly after his persistent advocacy for the “one man one shilling” policy.
This policy, which aims to equitably distribute resources based on population, has not sat well with some of the President’s inner circle.
The discontent came to a head when an anonymous ally of the President was overheard remarking, “Who does he think he is?” in reference to Gachagua.
This sentiment highlights the widening rift between the Deputy President and those closest to Ruto.
Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru, who is currently accompanying President Ruto on a state visit to the United States, publicly admonished Gachagua.
Through a post on her official social media, Waiguru implored the Deputy President not to personalize the office, emphasizing that it is a public institution.
The timing and location of her post—made while in the company of the President—have raised eyebrows and intensified speculation about the depth of the rift.
“While we respect the office of the Deputy President, and indeed any other office of leadership, a progressive democracy does not allow us as occupiers of public leadership offices to personalise them to the extent that it becomes taboo for anyone else to nurture and express ambition to occupy them,” said Waiguru in direct reference to Rigathi Gachagua.
Sources also disclosed to Kenya Regional News that President Ruto appears to prefer Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi over Rigathi Gachagua for key roles.
Mudavadi has accompanied Ruto on numerous occasions, both domestically and internationally, while Gachagua is often left managing affairs in the country. This preferential treatment has not gone unnoticed, further isolating Gachagua within the administration.
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The Deputy President’s position is further complicated by his firm stance against the current finance bill.
He has rallied his allies to oppose the bill, positioning himself at odds with the President’s legislative agenda. This move is seen by many political analysts as a risky maneuver, potentially alienating him from the center of power.
Sources indicate that Gachagua’s vocal opposition to the finance bill stems from his belief that it disproportionately the broader Mount Kenya region.
He argues that the bill’s provisions would place an undue financial burden on these areas, exacerbating existing economic disparities.
Meanwhile, the political landscape is shifting, with opposition leader Raila Odinga seemingly warming up to the government.
This rapprochement has left Gachagua in a precarious position, wondering about his place in the rapidly evolving political dynamics.
Despite the mounting pressure, Gachagua remains defiant. In a recent address, he reaffirmed his commitment to the “one man one shilling” policy and vowed to continue advocating for what he sees as equitable resource allocation.
“My duty is to the people of Kenya,” Gachagua stated. “I will not waver in my commitment to ensuring that every Kenyan receives their fair share.”
As the political drama unfolds, it remains to be seen how President Ruto will navigate this internal discord.
The growing tension poses a significant challenge to his administration, which has prided itself on unity and collective progress.
Kenya Regional News will continue to monitor the developments closely, providing updates as this story evolves.
