Former DP Rigathi Gachagua folded his sleeves and decided to go bare knuckle against President William Ruto’s personal aide, Farouk Kibet, during a charged political tour of Ukambani.
While addressing residents in Kitui County, Gachagua did not hold back, sharply criticizing Kibet over his recent remarks aimed at Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka. Gachagua questioned why Ruto would send someone he described as “a class six dropout” to court a seasoned politician like Kalonzo.
“President William Ruto has sent a class six dropout here (Ukambani) to advise Kalonzo Musyoka. Isn’t that looking down upon him?” Gachagua posed to a cheering crowd.
He went on to highlight Kalonzo’s credentials, noting that the former Vice President holds a law degree and has served in key government roles including Foreign Affairs Minister and Vice President.
Rigathi Gachagua gestures after attending a political meeting in Kitui
“Even if Ruto wants to advise Kalonzo, who has a PhD and a long record of public service, why would he send someone with no education or credibility?” Gachagua asked.
The former DP further accused Ruto’s government of relying on unqualified advisors, blaming the administration’s failures on their lack of education. “Two of his closest advisors are class four and class six dropouts. That’s why they’re in Ukambani dishing out money,” he alleged.
Gachagua’s comments came in response to Kibet’s statement urging Kalonzo to work with Ruto and join government. Kibet had said Kalonzo should “start thinking seriously” about his political future and consider a national role.
As 2027 succession politics heat up, Gachagua’s fiery remarks signal a widening rift in Kenya Kwanza and reinforce Kalonzo’s central role in the opposition’s strategy heading into the next election.
