Don’t Give Up, Come and Try – Gachagua Teases Ruto About Mount Kenya Support
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua delivered a pointed message to President William Ruto on Tuesday, teasing him over his chances of winning support from the Mount Kenya region. The remarks came as both leaders attended a burial in Olkalou, Central Kenya, for the late Ol Kalou MP, David Kiaraho.
Speaking to the press, Gachagua assured that the event would proceed peacefully and insisted that there was “no bad blood” between him and the Head of State. However, he did not shy away from taking a jab at Ruto, suggesting the President would face a tough challenge convincing voters from the Mountain to back him.
“If you are coming to Olkalou, we will welcome you. We voted for you, we love you, and we have no issue with you. Come and tell your lies about roads, electricity, and any other promises you have left,” Gachagua said. “They will probably listen, but I doubt it. It will be difficult, but don’t give up, come and try.”
Despite the playful sarcasm, Gachagua stressed the need to respect the President during the funeral. He warned against any attempts to jeer Ruto, reminding attendees that he remains the nation’s leader.
“If President William Ruto comes, nobody should make noise at him. He is still the President of Kenya, even if he has spoiled the country and caused its downfall,” he noted.
Gachagua, who now leads the Democratic Change Party (DCP), also addressed political differences publicly, contrasting his approach with that of Siaya Governor James Orengo. While Orengo has called for Ruto’s removal through mass protests, Gachagua emphasised that any effort to unseat the President should be strictly constitutional and peaceful.
“We want to remove William Ruto constitutionally through the ballot. We want peace, we don’t want problems,” he said.
In a pointed remark, Gachagua urged Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah to stop intimidating DCP politicians and alleged attempts to sponsor violence against him. He reiterated that no one can impose leadership on the people of Mount Kenya, asserting his independence in political decisions.
Earlier on Tuesday, President Ruto expressed hope that voters from the region would make decisions based on his performance record rather than political rhetoric.
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Don’t Give Up, Come and Try – Gachagua Teases Ruto About Mount Kenya Support