Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has lifted the lid on what he describes as President William Ruto’s latest strategy to sway Mt Kenya voters, handing out cash during his tours.
According to Gachagua, the President’s sudden generosity is not an act of goodwill but a calculated political move to secure votes in the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in Kanyuambora, Embu County, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader told residents that while the money may be tempting, they should not let it dictate their political choices.
“The President will bring a lot of money here. We cannot bury an elephant with its tusks. Take the money but do not give him our votes,” Gachagua said, warning locals against being “bought cheaply.”
Gachagua also revisited grievances over the dismissal of former Attorney General Justin Muturi from the cabinet, terming it a direct insult to the Mt Kenya community. He urged residents to use the ballot as a way of teaching President Ruto a lesson for sidelining leaders from the region.
Former DP Rigathi Gachagua during Makueni rally
In a fiery phone address to supporters, Gachagua pledged to unite with other opposition leaders to ensure Ruto serves only one term. He accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of turning against its own supporters and failing to honor promises made during the 2022 campaigns.
The rally was also attended by leaders allied to the DCP leader, who accused the State of sponsoring violence during Gachagua’s dramatic return to the country on Thursday.
Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thangwa alleged that the youth who attacked supporters and journalists along Mombasa Road were acting on orders from Ruto’s allies. “If they only target Gachagua, it shows who the real threat to Ruto is,” Karungo stated.
Gachagua returned to the country on August 21 to a heroic reception, despite clashes that left several injured. His re-entry into local politics has rekindled tensions within the Mt Kenya region, with analysts noting that his combative stance could reshape the battle for the mountain vote ahead of 2027.
