President William Ruto has disclosed that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua requested Ksh.10 billion to secure political support in the Mt. Kenya region. In a recent roundtable interview with vernacular stations, Ruto recounted that Gachagua allegedly warned he could make Ruto a one-term president unless the funds were provided. Ruto declined, stating, “If my fate is to be a one-term president, so be it.”
The President also addressed the internal conflicts within the Kenya Kwanza coalition, noting that Gachagua’s confrontations with key figures like blogger Dennis Itumbi and MPs Ndindi Nyoro and Kimani Ichung’wah led to tensions. Ruto emphasized that he did not personally advocate for Gachagua’s removal, asserting that due process was followed.
These revelations come ahead of Ruto’s planned nine-county tour of the Mt. Kenya region, aimed at updating voters on his administration’s progress. He dismissed concerns about political tensions, stating, “I am here because I was given a mandate by the people of Kenya, including those from Central Kenya.”
In response, Gachagua has urged Mt. Kenya residents to be cautious of Ruto’s promises during his visit, alleging that the President intends to distribute large sums to appease the region. He advised locals to accept the money but not to bring it home, claiming it is “cursed.”
These developments highlight the ongoing political dynamics and tensions within the Kenyan leadership as the administration seeks to solidify support in key regions.
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