Ruto brands Gachagua 'chief extortionist' in blistering attack

Kenyan President William Ruto has launched a strong attack on his former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of being a "chief extortionist". Ruto made the allegations at Nyangori in Nyamira County, where he claimed Gachagua demanded millions of shillings from businesspeople and political aspirants seeking his support. Gachagua is now the leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).

According to Ruto, Gachagua turned political engagements into opportunities to demand money, claiming that even securing an opportunity to address a gathering required payment. Ruto alleged that Gachagua demanded Sh10 million from one gubernatorial aspirant and Sh20 million from another, while other candidates were allegedly required to pay varying amounts. He also claimed that individuals seeking an opportunity to use a microphone during political meetings were required to pay Sh50,000.

Ruto dismissed Gachagua's repeated claims that he played a decisive role in securing his victory in the 2022 presidential election. The Head of State questioned why Gachagua continued to take credit for his political rise, contrasting their respective electoral histories. Ruto has been elected seven times, while Gachagua has only been elected once as a one-term MP.

The President also accused Gachagua of having excessive pride despite what he described as limited political achievements. Ruto revisited the political process that led to Gachagua's selection as his running mate in 2022, claiming that Gachagua had initially struggled to secure sufficient support from a group of leaders involved in the selection process. Gachagua received only four votes out of 30.

Ruto further accused Gachagua of falling out with several political colleagues after being given the opportunity to serve in government. According to Ruto, Gachagua's disagreements with other leaders eventually contributed to his political isolation and removal from office in October 2024. Gachagua subsequently established DCP as a political vehicle.

The remarks come amid continued political rivalry between the two leaders. Ruto also questioned the opposition's ability to provide effective leadership, arguing that disagreements among its leaders would undermine their capacity to address the concerns of ordinary Kenyans. He dismissed the ongoing political discussions surrounding competing candidates and party arrangements.

Ruto insisted that Kenyans were more interested in development plans and solutions to their everyday challenges. The President emphasized that the focus should be on providing solutions rather than engaging in petty politics. The political rivalry between Ruto and Gachagua is expected to continue in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.

Key points

• Ruto accuses Gachagua of extortion and demanding millions of shillings from businesspeople and political aspirants.
• Gachagua's disagreements with other leaders contributed to his political isolation and removal from office.
• Ruto dismisses Gachagua's claims of playing a decisive role in securing his victory in the 2022 presidential election.