Rigathi Gachagua Defends Fred Matiang’i in Ruaraka Land Scandal as 2027 Politics Heat Up
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has come out in defence of former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, arguing that he should not be held responsible for the controversial Ruaraka land payments.
Speaking on Saturday, July 11, Gachagua described the matter as a political witch-hunt, claiming the case was being used to intimidate Matiang’i and force him away from the United Opposition.
The Democratic Congress Party (DCP) leader argued that Matiang’i was not involved in making the payments and that responsibility should instead fall on government officials tasked with financial approvals.
“The court ruled that the payment of the land was made in contravention of the law, and those responsible should be charged. They are now trying to threaten Fred Matiang’i, but he was not involved in the payments.
“The person who pays is the PS, who is the accounting officer, and at the time, it was Belio Kipsang. So, Ruto, if there is anyone who should be arrested and arraigned in court, it is Kipsang. The Cabinet Secretary is in charge of policy,” he stated.
Gachagua insisted that Cabinet Secretaries are responsible for policy direction while accounting officers handle government financial transactions.
He urged Matiang’i to remain firm despite what he described as political pressure, promising to stand with him should authorities move against the former Interior CS.
Gachagua Promises Mount Kenya Support for Matiang’i
The DCP leader said he would mobilise supporters from the Mount Kenya region if Matiang’i faced legal action over the matter.
“I would like to tell my brother Matiang’i not to be intimidated because we will stand with you. If they come after you, I will mobilise the people of the Mountain to stand with you.
“We don’t want you to intimidate Matiang’i so that he goes back to Kasongo. I told Matiang’i that in the unfortunate event that he yields, he will go alone because the people will abandon you,” Gachagua stated.
Gachagua claimed the government had previously attempted to intimidate him but said he remained firm because of his determination.
He maintained that efforts to weaken the United Opposition would not succeed.
Gachagua Says Opposition Alliance Remains Strong
The former deputy president also revealed that he continues to engage with former President Uhuru Kenyatta, suggesting that the two leaders could work together politically.
“Uhuru and I are like peas in a pod, and when I am done with my consultation fora, I will have a sit-down with him before I make a final decision on the way forward. I will ask him for his advice because he once warned us, but we ignored him,” Gachagua noted.
His remarks come as political alliances continue to take shape ahead of the 2027 General Election, with leaders positioning themselves for influence within key voting blocs.
Gachagua maintained that the Mount Kenya region would deliver a united political message at the ballot box.
He warned that voters would punish leaders they believe have betrayed the interests of the region, including President William Ruto.
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