Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly denied claims that he asked President William Ruto for KSh10 billion to organize political activities in the Mt. Kenya region. In a TV interview on Monday, April 7, 2025, Gachagua called the accusations false and said they were meant to damage his reputation.
The claims came from President Ruto during his five-day visit to Mt. Kenya. Ruto alleged that Gachagua had threatened to disrupt his presidency unless he was paid the large sum. Ruto said, “I refused when he asked me for Sh10 billion, saying that if I didn’t give him the money, I would be a one-term president. If my fate is one term, so be it.”
Gachagua responded with his own accusations. He claimed that Ruto had tried to pressure him into resigning as Deputy President by offering him money. Gachagua also said he had recordings of talks with a senior government official sent by Ruto to discuss his resignation.
During the interview, Gachagua criticized Ruto’s leadership, accusing him of undermining his deputies and spreading lies to sway public opinion. He said, “I am now convinced more than ever before that pathological lying is a mental disorder. The greatest threat to our country is lying to the people of Kenya without shame.”
The fallout between the two leaders has sparked heated political discussions. Gachagua’s supporters have rallied behind him, questioning Ruto’s motives.
Gachagua has become a vocal critic of Ruto’s government, accusing the president of breaking promises to the Mt. Kenya region and engaging in political drama during his visit.
By Grace Githinji
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