Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged Mount Kenya residents to prepare for President William Ruto’s visit to the region while cautioning them against accepting small bribes to attend the tour.
Speaking in Naivasha on Saturday, Gachagua called on residents to give the head of state a warm reception but encouraged the president to focus on his mandate of serving the nation.
However, he humorously set what he termed as the “minimum” amount residents should accept to participate in the visit.
“Do not accept Ksh 200 to attend. Listening to the president should cost Ksh 3,000, clapping after a speech Ksh 2,000, laughing at a joke Ksh 5,000, and ululating should be Ksh 10,000,” Gachagua quipped.
He made the remarks while attending the consecration ceremony of Rev. Harrison Munyua of the Redeemed Church in Naivasha town.
Gachagua Criticizes Ruto’s Leadership
The former deputy president took a swipe at the Kenya Kwanza administration, accusing it of failing to meet the expectations of Kenyans.
Gachagua also criticized Members of Parliament allied to the government, stating that they had let down the people by failing to hold the executive accountable.
“I speak out because there is no trusted opposition in the country. Kenya is headed in the wrong direction, and someone must say it,” he remarked.
He further warned Mount Kenya residents against using bribe money received during the president’s tour, stating, “That money is cursed.”
Gachagua also attributed his fallout with Ruto to what he described as “too many lies” that he witnessed within the administration. He urged the president to reflect on why residents of Nakuru, a region that once supported him, were now expressing dissatisfaction.
Gachagua Cautions Military Leadership
Addressing the role of the military in governance, Gachagua called on Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri to steer clear of politics.
“We have no problem with anyone, but General Kahariri should not involve himself in political matters. The military is a respected institution and must remain independent,” he cautioned.
He warned that any interference in national affairs by the military could erode public trust in the institution.
At the same time, Gachagua clarified that the “Ruto must go” slogan being chanted by some Kenyans was not a call for forceful removal but a statement signaling preparation for the 2027 elections.
“‘Ruto must go’ is not about physically removing him from power, but rather a call for Kenyans to prepare for change in 2027,” he stated.
