Gachagua Allies Target President Ruto Amid Growing Rift

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has found himself at the center of mounting political tension with his boss, President William Ruto. The friction, reminiscent of the challenges Ruto faced during his own time as Deputy President, has led to rumors of impeachment and accusations of betrayal.

In a candid interview on September 20, Gachagua confirmed reports of a growing rift with Ruto, revealing that Members of Parliament (MPs) are allegedly being bribed and pressured into supporting an impeachment motion against him. “I know what’s happening in those secret meetings,” Gachagua said, underscoring the internal strife within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party.

Gachagua also urged President Ruto to intervene and restore order within the party, hinting that political temperatures could rise if the situation remains unchecked. “It’s up to the president to stop this chaos. He can tell MPs to quit the attacks and end the secret meetings. It’s about leadership,” he emphasized.

Two days later, during a church service in Thika, Kiambu County, Gachagua and his allies escalated the confrontation, openly criticizing Ruto. Gachagua warned his boss against reviving the politics of betrayal, reminding him of the strong support he received from Mt. Kenya when facing opposition from former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s regime. “Our people hate betrayal and will not forgive it,” he stated.

Several UDA leaders echoed these sentiments, with party Secretary General Cleophas Malala warning Ruto that the same forces allegedly plotting to oust Gachagua could soon target the president himself. “Those trying to remove your deputy may eventually turn on you,” Malala cautioned.

Meanwhile, opposition figures, such as ODM Chairperson Gladys Wanga, dismissed Gachagua’s complaints, suggesting he focus on his role rather than stirring political unrest.

As tensions rise, Gachagua’s all-out attack on President Ruto threatens to deepen the rift within Kenya’s political landscape, with some predicting a rocky road ahead for the administration.