Political scientist Prof Mutahi Ngunyi has weighed in on the ongoing exchanges between former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and head of presidential special projects and creative economy Dennis Itumbi, adding a sharply worded interpretation that has further fueled public debate.
The remarks come after Gachagua, speaking during a political engagement in London, accused Itumbi of exercising significant influence within government operations.
He suggested that Itumbi plays a central role in coordination during President William Ruto’s absence and questioned why key administrative meetings appear to be chaired by unelected officials rather than senior constitutional office holders.
Gachagua’s comments have been widely discussed within political circles, with supporters arguing he was raising concerns about institutional order, while critics view his remarks as politically motivated attacks targeting individuals close to State House.
Responding to the controversy, Prof Ngunyi dismissed the framing of Gachagua’s criticism and instead focused on what he described as underlying personal tensions driving the exchanges. In his statement, he said:
“Dear Gachagua: When were you circumcized? In Kikuyu culture, you cannot INSULT a man circumcised long after you. It is a sign of testicular disorder. One TESTACLE. Why does Dennis Itumbi, a young man, irritate you? Is it DEFICIT masculinity? Let the YOUNG MAN be.”
The remarks immediately sparked mixed reactions, with some interpreting them as a symbolic commentary on generational and political rivalry, while others criticized the language as inappropriate for public discourse.
Itumbi has since rejected Gachagua’s allegations, insisting that his position in government is based on experience and performance in political communication and digital strategy.
He maintained that his rise within the communications structure reflects trust in his professional capacity and not political favoritism.
He also accused Gachagua of pursuing personal attacks following his exit from government, arguing that the claims are part of a broader attempt to remain politically relevant.
The dispute has drawn attention to internal dynamics within the Kenya Kwanza political environment, where questions about communication authority and informal influence networks continue to surface.