Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly denied claims that he demanded Ksh.10 billion from President William Ruto. The allegations, which surfaced during recent political debates, suggest that Gachagua asked for the funds to manage political activities in the Mt. Kenya region. Speaking on KTN News in a live interview on Monday night, Gachagua called the accusations false and politically motivated.
“I never blackmailed the President,” said Gachagua. “If I had, it would have been the first thing they used against me when they tried to remove me from office.”
Gachagua Links Accusations to Political Fallout
Gachagua claimed the rumors were part of a wider plan to discredit him. He believes the campaign is aimed at ruining his reputation, especially in Central Kenya, where he enjoys strong support.
He further alleged that President Ruto, the National Intelligence Service (NIS), and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Prof. Kithure Kindiki worked together to push him out of government.
“There was a plot to get rid of me,” Gachagua stated. “And this plot involved some of the highest offices in government.”
Allegations Shift Across Regions
According to Gachagua, the reasons given for his removal kept changing depending on where Ruto was speaking. He argued that these inconsistent claims show that the accusations have no real basis.
“In Western Kenya, they said I was tribal and incompetent. In North Eastern, they called me divisive. In Nyanza, I was labeled primitive and corrupt,” he explained. “But when Ruto came to Mt. Kenya, none of these things were said. Instead, he accused me of asking for Ksh.10 billion.”
Gachagua emphasized that such mixed messages are a sign of political manipulation. He believes the shifting narrative was designed to weaken his support across different regions.
Contradictions Within Ruto’s Camp
The former Deputy President also pointed out conflicting information shared by Ruto’s allies. He mentioned that digital strategist Dennis Itumbi and Majority Leader in the National Assembly Kimani Ichung’wah gave varying figures about the alleged funds.
“First, they said Ksh.3 billion, then Ksh.10 billion. It doesn’t add up,” Gachagua said. “They are trying to paint me as greedy, but the facts just don’t support that story.”
These inconsistencies, Gachagua argued, raise doubts about the credibility of the accusations.
Gachagua Recalls Sacrifices for Ruto’s Campaign
Gachagua reminded Kenyans of the challenges he faced during the previous administration due to his open support for William Ruto’s 2022 presidential campaign. He said he faced financial hardships, business blockades, and legal threats as a result.
“My accounts were frozen, my businesses were blocked, and I was constantly harassed,” Gachagua recalled. “But I never stopped supporting Ruto. I gave my time, money, and energy because I believed in his cause.”
He added that it would not make sense for him to later demand money from the same person he supported at great personal cost.
“I invested heavily in his campaign,” he said. “I’m not the type to go asking him for money. That’s not who I am.”
Political Tensions Ahead of 2027 Elections
The allegations come as political tensions rise ahead of the 2027 general elections. Mt. Kenya remains a key battleground, and any rift between former allies like Ruto and Gachagua could shift voter loyalties.
Analysts say that if Gachagua continues to challenge Ruto publicly, it may split the support base in Central Kenya. This could open doors for opposition candidates looking to gain ground in the region.
“Mt. Kenya is critical in any Kenyan election. A fallout between key figures like Ruto and Gachagua will definitely shake things up. Both sides will try to win the hearts of voters, and that will make politics in the region even more intense.”
Gachagua’s Next Move Unclear
While Gachagua has not announced any plans for 2027, his recent statements suggest he is preparing to play a larger role in national politics. His rejection of the bribery claims may be part of a broader effort to rebuild trust with his supporters.
Observers say Gachagua may be positioning himself for a comeback, either by forming a new political alliance or by joining forces with opposition leaders.
For now, the former Deputy President remains focused on clearing his name and reaffirming his commitment to honest politics.
