‘Wantam’ to ‘Cousins’: How Gachagua’s Verbal Blitz is Shaking Kenya Kwanza Regime
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has become the face of opposition politics in Kenya, captivating the nation with his sharp rhetoric, populist slogans and unmatched crowd control during public appearances across the country.
Over the past few months Gachagua’s public rallies and soundbites have made him the central figure in the growing resistance against President William Ruto’s government.
Gachagua’s rise has been a mix of humour, local dialect and direct government criticism – an approach that has resonated with a big chunk of the Kenyan electorate especially those disillusioned with the current political establishment.
His speeches, full of punchlines and cultural references have gone viral on social media platforms like TikTok and have reignited public political discourse especially among the youth.
A notable moment was at Githurai 45 where Gachagua led the crowd in a now famous chant: “Harambee!” to which the crowd responded “Wantam!” The slogan went viral and inspired thousands of TikTok challenges and was being echoed in nightclubs and public spaces.
Less than a month later Gachagua unveiled another phrase – “Cousins” – during a rally at the Coast where he asked for national unity by saying Kikuyu and Coastal communities are cousins. “Sisi ni ma cousins, ukweli ama uwongo?” he asked and another wave of online trends, parody videos and public engagement followed.
Gachagua’s rhetorical influence has drawn comparisons to global political showmen with some likening his style to Italy’s Silvio Berlusconi. His ability to dominate political conversations without being in office has unsettled many in President Ruto’s inner circle.
In 2022 exiled lawyer and political commentator Dr. Miguna Miguna praised Gachagua’s grassroots mobilization skills. In an interview with Look Up TV, Miguna said: “I think Gachagua is the best communicator of that team… a very insightful man.”Despite being side-lined by his political opponents, Gachagua has maintained the pace.
He is known as the “King of Wamunyoro” and has used his backyard as a launchpad for a national campaign to discredit the current government. His unconventional style – through sunroofs, marketplaces and impromptu town halls – has re-ignited opposition activism and attracted big crowds.
With Kenya heading into a political season, Rigathi Gachagua’s populist slogans and slogans will continue to overwhelm national discourse. Whether his momentum will be translated into actual political movement or otherwise remains to be seen but he will be the focal point of the politics of the country for the time being.
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‘Wantam’ to ‘Cousins’: How Gachagua’s Verbal Blitz is Shaking Kenya Kwanza Regime