Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto’s administration of weaponizing state agencies to silence dissenting voices, claiming that there is a plot to arrest him. His remarks come amid rising political tensions following his vocal criticism of the government.
Speaking at the launch of Martha Karua’s newly rebranded Peoples Liberation Party (PLP), Gachagua alleged that Ruto’s close allies were unsettled by his warning against the alleged plot to remove Chief Justice Martha Koome. According to Gachagua, the government has been pressuring Koome to align with its political agenda, a move he vowed to resist.
During a recent visit to Meru County, Gachagua claimed that Ruto’s administration was planning his arrest for standing firm against the alleged scheme. He dismissed the threats, stating he was ready for any consequences that may follow.
“Recently, I was in Meru and warned them against doing certain things. They said they would arrest me, and I told them I’d be at home waiting. You’re welcome; we can have tea before you escort me to the police station,” he said defiantly.
The former DP took a swipe at the government’s recent arrests of political figures and activists, noting that jail cells were not a deterrent. “For those who are getting arrested, these jails are made for men. Nowadays, the cells are even made of stone and have toilets,” he quipped.
Gachagua also took the opportunity to declare his political ambitions, hinting at launching his campaign in 2026, two years before the next general election. He asserted that he and his allies were prepared to challenge Ruto’s leadership and expose what he termed as lies by the administration.
“We have his antidote. The day we start campaigning, we will dismantle him and expose him for his lies. By 2026, no one will listen to his deceit,” Gachagua declared.
The event was attended by prominent opposition leaders, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-K’s Eugene Wamalwa, and Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, marking what could be the early stages of a political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
