Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has hinted at the ongoing isolation of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Speaking during a church service at the AIPCA Ngangarithi Church in Nyeri on Sunday, Kahiga addressed the alleged mistreatment of Gachagua, further fueling speculation about a rift between President William Ruto and his deputy.
Kahiga’s fiery speech underscored the Deputy President’s perceived marginalization, specifically pointing to an incident where Gachagua was reportedly denied access to a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) chopper during a recent trip to Bomet. “When Rigathi was going to Bomet, they told him that his plane was not available. Does that plane belong to anyone, doesn’t it belong to the Government?” questioned Kahiga, directing his criticism at Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale.
The Governor’s remarks highlighted the growing discontent within the political circles supporting Gachagua. Kahiga insisted that any elected leader, including the Deputy President, deserves respect. “Anybody who was elected whether an MCA, MP or governor must face opposition, even President Ruto at some point will face opposition, that is the law of democracy,” he asserted.
This statement comes amid widespread speculation about a cold war between President Ruto and his deputy, which has reportedly led to Gachagua contemplating an exit from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). Despite these rumors, Kahiga dismissed claims that Gachagua was planning to leave the party, reaffirming his loyalty to the UDA.
The church service, attended by several of Ruto’s allies, including Kipchumba Murkomen, served as a platform for Kahiga to voice concerns about the internal political dynamics and the necessity for mutual respect among elected officials. He warned that no leader is immune to opposition, a fundamental principle of democracy.
Governor Kahiga’s remarks have brought to light the underlying friction within the highest echelons of power, raising questions about the future political landscape and the stability of the current administration. As the nation watches closely, the evolving relationship between President Ruto and Deputy President Gachagua remains a focal point of Kenyan politics.
