When Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua addressed residents of Kiserian. [File, Standard]
Rigathi Gachagua returns, criticises Ruto
Politics
By
Boniface Gikandi
| Nov 02, 2025
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua returned to the public eye in Kariara, Murang’a, sharply criticising President William Ruto over the state of the tea and coffee sectors.
Gachagua’s appearance came after several weeks of absence following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
Speaking in Kariara Ward, Gatanga, during the burial of six family members who died after their vehicle plunged into the Kiama River, he accused some Mt Kenya leaders of promoting President Ruto despite community rejection.
“The Mt Kenya region continues to suffer due to sabotage of the economy by state actors,” he said, adding that he is seeking more foot soldiers from Murang’a, alongside the 15 dedicated leaders who have supported him despite intimidation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Gachagua urged residents to back Deputy President candidates in 2027, criticizing those leaders who abandoned community interests to campaign for Ruto.
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During the burial, Gatanga parliamentary aspirant Samuel Mwangi, also chairman of KICC, attempted to popularize Ruto but was heckled by residents.
“Uncle Sam, you have messed up. Next time, respect a community that is fed up with President Ruto,” he said expressing his frustrations.
He also highlighted challenges in the tea sector, noting that farmers received smaller bonuses after the Sudan market, valued at Sh60 billion, was allegedly sabotaged.
Gachagua was accompanied by Senator Joe Nyutu, MPs Edward Muriu(Gatanga) and John Kaguchia (Mukurwe-ini), former Kigumo MP Jamleck Kamau, and Kariara MCA Gichobe Mbatia, among others.
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