Democracy for the Citizen Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has launched a sharp attack on President William Ruto, telling him to stay out of his family matters amid an escalating dispute over his late brother’s estate.
Speaking during a political tour in Kirinyaga County, Gachagua accused the President of interfering in private family issues following an appeal by the family of the late former Nyeri Governor Nderitu Gachagua.
Family Seeks Probe into Alleged Will Forgery
The dispute stems from concerns raised by the late governor’s family, led by his widow Margaret Nyokabi Nderitu, who have called on President Ruto to order an independent investigation into alleged forgery of the deceased’s will and unlawful interference in his estate.
The appeal came shortly after President Ruto publicly accused Gachagua of hypocrisy—alleging that while he calls others thieves, he had allegedly benefited improperly from his brother’s wealth.
Gachagua Hits Back
In a strongly worded response, Gachagua dismissed the President’s remarks and warned him against meddling in his family affairs.
“Amesahau mambo ya Kenya anaingilia mambo ya familia ya Gachagua… Wewe William Ruto, ukona familia yenu ya Kalenjin… usiingilie mambo ya familia yangu hapa milimani,” Gachagua said.
He further accused the Head of State of attempting to divide the Mt. Kenya region and now allegedly targeting his family.
Political Undertones Emerge
The row quickly took a political turn, with Gachagua using the moment to rally support for his DCP party, urging leaders still aligned with the ruling administration to defect immediately.
He warned that those delaying their move risk being locked out of party nominations.
“Those still in Ruto’s administration want to benefit first, then come and confuse you later. Will you allow them?” he posed, as residents responded with chants of “one term.”
Gachagua maintained that DCP nominations would be free and fair, but insisted that loyalty would be a key consideration.
Calls to Reject Pro-Government Leaders
During his tour of Mwea, Kirinyaga Central, and Gichugu, the former Deputy President urged residents to vote out leaders supporting President Ruto in the next general election, framing the moment as a turning point for political change.
In a controversial remark, he told residents to accept financial handouts from the President but reject leaders accompanying him.
“When William Ruto visits, take his money, but don’t let other leaders speak—they are traitors,” Gachagua said.
Growing Political Tensions
The exchange signals deepening political tensions between Gachagua and President Ruto, with personal disputes now spilling into the public arena and intertwining with early political mobilization ahead of the next.
