“If You’re Man Enough, Attack Uhuru Publicly,” Gachagua Dares Ruto

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a sharp challenge to President William Ruto, vowing to defend retired President Uhuru Kenyatta from what he describes as sustained political attacks by Ruto and members of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Speaking at a public address, Gachagua alleged that Uhuru Kenyatta is being targeted simply for exercising his constitutional right to engage in politics and interact with other leaders. 

He accused UDA operatives of being sent to intimidate the former president and pressure him into political silence.

“I have seen leaders from Western Kenya—the Governor, the Deputy Governor, Aden Duale and others. They have been sent by William Ruto to abuse President Uhuru Kenyatta, intimidate him, and sell him fear that he should not have a political mind. He should not interact with other leaders or make political choices, and if he does, they threaten to take away his retirement benefits and allowances,” Gachagua said.

He dismissed claims that withdrawing allowances could influence Kenyatta’s decisions. 

“President Uhuru Kenyatta is not a poor man. He has worked hard, has money and resources, and cannot be told to shut up just to get allowances,” he stated.

Gachagua framed his remarks as a defense of both Kenyatta’s dignity and the unity of the Mount Kenya region. 

“President Ruto is in shock and panicked. The one-term sentiment is real because he became President courtesy of votes from the Mount Kenya region. Those who voted for him, and even for Raila, are now against him,” he said.

He added that he, Kenyatta, and other leaders, including Martha Karua, Justin Muturi, and Mithuka Linturi, remain committed to keeping Mount Kenya politically united. 

“The region’s unity is crucial to shaping national leadership. I call on President Ruto to stop using junior leaders to attack Uhuru,” Gachagua said.

The former deputy president also hinted at his future political agenda, saying that when he assumes office, he intends to “give himself his due” while ensuring the rights and dignity of regional leaders are protected.