Ruto-Gachagua ‘handshake plot’ explodes as Wamuchomba drops billion-shilling bombshell
Mount Kenya politics take a dramatic turn as allies trade claims over a possible rapprochement between President William Ruto and his former deputy Rigathi Gachagua.
Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba has alleged that Rigathi Gachagua is positioning himself for a political truce with President William Ruto, in remarks that have stirred fresh debate over shifting alliances within the ruling coalition.
Speaking on Wednesday, April 8, Wamuchomba claimed the former Deputy President’s tone during the burial of Ol Kalau MP David Kiaraho signaled a calculated attempt to ease tensions with the Head of State.
According to the lawmaker, Gachagua’s measured language and restrained delivery while addressing mourners—despite airing grievances—were deliberate.
She described him as “a political genius” who carefully chose his words in the presence of President Ruto, who attended the funeral as chief guest.
During his address, Gachagua referred to the President as “my brother” and urged leaders from the Mount Kenya region to accord him respect, remarks that Wamuchomba interpreted as an attempt to rebuild bridges.
However, the MP went further, suggesting that any potential reconciliation could come at a cost.
“Riggy G is a political genius. His calculations are adding up. He’s warming up for a handshake with President Ruto so that he can get his billions and move abroad,” Wamuchomba claimed.
In a striking analogy, she added that she would play a central role in any such rapprochement.
“I will be in Ruto’s kitchen and I will be the one serving the handshake tea,” she said.
Wamuchomba also urged Mount Kenya leaders to tone down confrontational rhetoric against those aligned with the President, warning that continued infighting could jeopardize development projects in the region.
“Stop with the insults for now so that we can build roads and get our share of development. When Ruto and Gachagua shake hands, we will be sorted out,” she added.
Her remarks come amid growing speculation over the relationship between Ruto and Gachagua, which has appeared strained in recent months.
At the same event, Gachagua himself appeared to signal openness to reconciliation, calling on the President to mend ties with communities in the Mount Kenya region.
He indicated a willingness to work with Ruto again, but with conditions—urging the President to distance himself from certain allies, including Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah.
President Ruto, however, responded firmly, dismissing attempts to frame their differences as a broader community issue.
He cautioned his allies against intimidation, accusing unnamed individuals of adopting a “god complex” and assuming their influence alone could dictate electoral outcomes.
The exchange underscores deepening political undercurrents within the Kenya Kwanza administration, with the possibility of a high-stakes reconciliation—or further fallout—continuing to dominate the national conversation.
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Ruto-Gachagua ‘handshake plot’ explodes as Wamuchomba drops billion-shilling bombshell