Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has boldly dismissed calls for his arrest by allies of President William Ruto, vowing to continue exposing alleged corruption and misconduct within the government. His remarks come amid accusations that he violated the Official Secrets Act by disclosing confidential state affairs during recent media interviews.
Speaking at former President Mwai Kibaki’s memorial service in Nyeri County, Gachagua defended his right to speak out, stating that his oath of office required him to uphold the law and act in the public interest. “I saw someone trying to lecture me that I should not talk about it because I swore to some constitution… the constitution I swore to is to do the right thing and keep the law,” he declared.
Gachagua also weighed in on Kenya’s diplomatic tensions with Sudan, suggesting that commercial interests were driving the dispute. His comments have drawn sharp criticism from pro-Ruto politicians, including former nominated MP Wilson Sossion and Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, who have demanded his immediate arrest.
Sossion accused Gachagua of treason, arguing that he breached his oath of secrecy by revealing sensitive government discussions. “Breaking the oath of secrecy is treason. Any matter discussed with the President must not be shared publicly,” Sossion said. Kaluma, on the other hand, described Gachagua’s statements as reckless and a threat to national stability, urging law enforcement to prosecute him for undermining the republic.
The escalating feud stems from Gachagua’s recent television interview, where he accused President Ruto of exploiting his office for personal financial gain. His outspoken criticism has intensified political divisions, with Ruto’s allies viewing his actions as a direct challenge to the presidency.
Despite the backlash, Gachagua remains defiant, positioning himself as a whistleblower against government malpractice. His stance has garnered mixed reactions, with supporters praising his courage while opponents condemn him for destabilizing the administration. As pressure mounts for legal action, the unfolding drama underscores Kenya’s deepening political tensions and the precarious balance between accountability and state secrecy.
The situation raises critical questions about freedom of speech, governance, and the limits of dissent in Kenya’s evolving democracy. Whether Gachagua’s revelations will lead to meaningful reform or further polarization remains to be seen.
