Political rhetoric surrounding former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is intensifying, with allies and critics offering sharply contrasting interpretations of his growing influence across the Mt Kenya region ahead of the next general election.
City lawyer Wahome Thuku has stirred fresh debate after claiming that Gachagua’s recent political mobilisation is largely driven by a quest for political retribution rather than policy reform.
His remarks come amid sustained tours by the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader, where he has openly criticised President William Ruto and sought to consolidate regional support.
Thuku framed Gachagua’s political posture as revenge-driven, arguing that the former deputy president’s focus is not on governance issues.
“There is no doubt, the Kikuyu Community will avenge for their kingpin Rigathi Gachagua. And the good part is that vengeance is all that Gachagua is looking for,” Thuku said.
He further claimed that Gachagua is not prioritising key national concerns such as the cost of living, education funding, or agricultural reforms.
“Gachagua is not interested in a government that will pay capitation on time or reduce the cost of living. He is not interested in a government that will streamline SHA or university funding. He has nothing to do with a government that will address insecurity and cost of farming,” he added.
Thuku instead linked policy-oriented leadership to opposition figures including Edwin Sifuna, Fred Matiang’i, and Kalonzo Musyoka.
The lawyer also suggested that Gachagua’s political strategy is centred on punishing those perceived to have contributed to his political fallout, including lawmakers who supported his impeachment.
“All he wants is to see William Samoei Ruto pay for the humiliation he subjected him to. All he wants is MPs and Senators to pay for impeaching him and those who were very happy about it to pay for it as well,” he stated.
According to Thuku, this sentiment could translate into a voting pattern in Mt Kenya that targets specific leaders.
“That sweet revenge will be granted by the Kikuyu rûrîrî in Mt Kenya. Anyone who impeached Gachagua and anyone who cheered the impeachers will be sent home,” he said.