Gachagua Demanded Ksh.10B to ‘Fix’ Mt. Kenya Politics, Ruto Claims
President William Ruto has disclosed details of his fallout with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, alleging that Gachagua sought Ksh.10 billion to solidify support for the President in the Mt. Kenya region.
Speaking during a roundtable interview with vernacular media on Monday, Ruto explained that tensions between him and Gachagua began soon after assuming office. The rift escalated as Gachagua clashed with key figures within the Kenya Kwanza coalition, including blogger Dennis Itumbi and MPs Ndindi Nyoro and Kimani Ichung’wah.
“I asked him, ‘Why are you fighting with Itumbi, your office PA, and these young leaders? What’s the need for such small battles?’” Ruto stated, emphasizing that Gachagua’s confrontational nature created friction within the ruling party.
According to Ruto, Gachagua’s fallout with lawmakers led to his impeachment, as MPs acted preemptively to protect their political futures. “The MPs were told that unless they bowed down, they would be sent home. In response, they decided to act first,” Ruto revealed.
The Head of State clarified that he did not personally push for Gachagua’s removal, maintaining that due process was followed. “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 affirmed.
Gachagua’s Alleged Ksh.10 Billion Demand
In a shocking revelation, Ruto claimed that Gachagua attempted to extort Ksh.10 billion from him to secure political dominance in Mt. Kenya.
“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 recounted.
The President dismissed fears of political turmoil in the wake of his planned nine-county tour of the Mt. Kenya region, which kicks off on Tuesday. He assured voters that his administration remains committed to fulfilling its pledges.
“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 stated.
Ruto Defends His Track Record
Responding to criticism from Gachagua and his allies, Ruto defended his development record, highlighting key infrastructure projects undertaken under his leadership.
“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 remarked in a subtle jab at Gachagua.
The unfolding political drama signals a deepening divide within the Kenya Kwanza government as the battle for Mt. Kenya’s political dominance intensifies. The upcoming tour by Ruto is expected to test his grip on the region amid the ongoing fallout with his former deputy.
In other news:Gachagua Warns Mt Kenya Residents Ahead of Ruto’s Tour: ‘Money is Coming in Bags’
Gachagua Demanded Ksh.10B to ‘Fix’ Mt. Kenya Politics, Ruto Claims