President Ruto Rebukes Gachagua as Tensions Rise in Nyeri Event

Yesterday, on Sunday, September 15, 2024, President William Ruto attended an event in Nyeri, the political stronghold of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. With political tensions running high, Gachagua was notably absent, and his seat remained vacant.

Many politicians from the Mount Kenya region, who have pledged loyalty to the president, have openly criticized Gachagua, calling for his removal from government. Some have even likened him to "a snake clinging to his master's hand."

Throughout the church service at AIPCA Central Western Archdiocese in Nyeri County, what was supposed to be Gachagua's official seat beside the president stayed unoccupied. In what seemed like a direct rebuke, President Ruto urged his deputy to avoid early campaigning and instead focus on delivering the government's agenda.

The president, visibly frustrated, further warned Gachagua against shifting his focus to the 2027 presidential race, which is still three years away. This latest clash has seen several leaders distance themselves from Gachagua, aligning with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki.