President William Ruto has made explosive revelations about his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of attempting to extort Ksh.10 billion to “organize” the Mt. Kenya region politically.
Speaking during a roundtable interview with vernacular stations on Monday, Ruto disclosed that Gachagua approached him with the demand, claiming he had the power to either secure or sabotage his re-election.
“I was told, ‘I can make you a one-term president unless you give me Ksh.10 billion to organize politics in the region.’ I refused. If my fate is to be a one-term president, so be it,” Ruto stated.
The President’s statement paints a picture of a deputy who was not only focused on financial gain but also wielded intimidation tactics to control the political narrative in Mt. Kenya.
Bullying and Threats in Mt. Kenya
Ruto further accused Gachagua of using coercion and threats to consolidate power, pushing Mt. Kenya MPs into submission.
“The MPs were told that unless they bowed down, they would be sent home. In response, they decided to act first,” Ruto revealed, implying that lawmakers turned against Gachagua after he tried to strong-arm them into loyalty.
According to sources within Kenya Kwanza, tensions between Gachagua and key Mt. Kenya leaders, including Ndindi Nyoro and Kimani Ichung’wah, escalated due to his aggressive style of leadership.
Ruto stated that he attempted to intervene and de-escalate the situation, urging Gachagua to stop antagonizing his allies.
“I asked him, ‘Why are you fighting with Itumbi, my PA Farouk, and these young leaders? What’s the need for such small battles?’” he recounted.
Ruto: I Had No Hand in His Downfall
Despite the dramatic fallout, Ruto insisted that he had no role in Gachagua’s impeachment.
“I did not sign anywhere for him to be removed. The law was followed, and those who removed him did so within the legal framework,” he said.
His remarks have fueled speculation that Gachagua’s downfall was a direct result of his own political miscalculations, rather than an orchestrated scheme by the President.
The Battle for Mt. Kenya’s Political Future
With Ruto now distancing himself from Gachagua, the political future of the Mt. Kenya region remains uncertain. The President is set to embark on a nine-county tour starting Tuesday, where he is expected to reinforce his support base and counter Gachagua’s lingering influence.
“I am here because I was given a mandate by the people of Kenya, including those from Central Kenya. From tomorrow, it will be clear whether I have fulfilled my promises,” Ruto declared.
His visit comes amid rising tensions, with Gachagua and his allies accusing the President of sidelining the region. However, Ruto dismissed these claims, pointing to infrastructure projects he has spearheaded.
“I have heard some leaders say I have done nothing. But I was the one who initiated the road from Marua, passing through Wamunyoro, where this very critic lives,” he said in a veiled jab at Gachagua.
This tour is viewed as a strategic move to consolidate support ahead of the 2027 elections, especially following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has since rallied opposition within the Mt. Kenya region.
