In a political landscape often defined by toxic slander and theatrical mudslinging, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, now affectionately known as “Riggy G”, has carved a new niche: that of a viral slogan maestro, a master of wit who has turned Kenya’s charged political atmosphere into his personal stage.
With a blend of unfiltered charm, sharp-tongued humor, and grassroots appeal, Gachagua has become the face of a resurgent opposition movement, wielding not policy papers, but pithy catchphrases that have lit up social media and unsettled the highest office in the land. From his motorcade’s sunroof, he delivers political zingers that resonate with a public increasingly disillusioned by traditional political rhetoric.
His most iconic slogan so far, a resounding chant of “Harambee!” answered by crowds with a booming “Wantam!”, has taken the nation by storm. What began as a rallying cry at a Githurai rally has since evolved into a full-fledged TikTok challenge, nightclub anthem, and national inside joke. The “Wantam” moment encapsulated Gachagua’s uncanny ability to turn political speech into pop culture.
Then came “Hi, Cousins!”, another spontaneous but calculated phrase, delivered during a fiery speech on the Coast where he called for unity between Kikuyus and coastal communities, rebranding their relationship as familial. The slogan sparked another social media frenzy, birthing countless parodies, remixes, and animated spoofs. In an era of attention-driven politics, Gachagua is proving to be a formidable digital-age campaigner.
His village-style storytelling, earthy, unfiltered, and disarmingly relatable, cuts through Kenya’s often elitist political discourse. And in the words of exiled lawyer Miguna Miguna, who once hailed Gachagua as “the best mobiliser” of his former team, the man understands power politics better than many give him credit for.
While critics dismiss him as a populist loudmouth, Gachagua’s slogan-driven campaign is proving effective. He has rallied crowds, shaped conversations, and ignited a political base that is increasingly turning its ears, and social feeds, toward him. Whether he’s a flash in the pan or a political force with staying power remains to be seen.
But one thing is certain: in the theatre of Kenyan politics, Riggy G is not just speaking, he’s trending.
Written By Rodney Mbua
