NYANDARUA, Kenya — Gathoni Wamuchomba on Wednesday claimed that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is strategically positioning himself for a political rapprochement with President William Ruto, following his measured tone at the memorial service of the late Ol Kalou MP David Njuguna Kiaraho.
Wamuchomba argued that Gachagua’s restrained and conciliatory remarks signaled a calculated move to pave the way for a possible “handshake” with his former boss.
“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,” she claimed.
The Githunguri MP described Gachagua as deliberate in his messaging, noting that despite airing grievances, he referred to the President as his “brother” and urged Mt Kenya leaders to accord him respect—an approach she interpreted as softening political ground.
Wamuchomba further sensationally claimed she would play a role in any potential reconciliation, stating she would be “in Ruto’s kitchen” and “serve the handshake tea” should the two leaders reach an agreement.
Her remarks come against the backdrop of heightened political friction in the Mt Kenya region, where divisions between factions aligned to Gachagua and those backing President Ruto have intensified in recent months.
The lawmaker urged regional leaders to tone down political attacks against the Kenya Kwanza administration, warning that continued hostility could undermine development prospects.
“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 said.
During the memorial service, Gachagua appeared to extend an olive branch, calling on President Ruto to reconcile with the Mt Kenya community while maintaining criticism of certain individuals within the President’s inner circle.
He indicated willingness to work with the Head of State under specific conditions, including distancing from allies such as Kimani Ichung’wah, whom he accused of contributing to the political fallout.
President Ruto, however, pushed back against the narrative, accusing Gachagua of attempting to frame their personal political differences as a broader community issue.
The Head of State also cautioned his allies against intimidation, taking aim at what he described as leaders with a “god complex” who believe they can unilaterally influence electoral outcomes.
The exchange highlights the fluid and often unpredictable nature of Mt Kenya politics, where shifting alliances and strategic recalibrations continue to shape the region’s political direction ahead of future elections.
