GACHAGUA REVEALS HOW RUTO STOPPED HIM FROM WALKING WITH HIS WIFE

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto of repeatedly blocking him from attending official state functions in the company of his wife, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi.

Speaking during a church service in Kirinyaga County on Sunday, Gachagua claimed that while in office, President Ruto imposed restrictions that prevented him from walking with his wife at public events, particularly when the First Lady, Rachael Ruto, was absent.

“These people hurt me and my wife when we were in office. William Ruto didn’t want me to walk with my wife in church when he was present. He told me that, protocol-wise, it was only proper for me to be with my wife when he was with his,” Gachagua stated.

Gachagua revealed that he was often forced to inquire in advance whether the First Lady would attend certain functions so he could determine if his wife would be allowed to accompany him. He recalled an incident during the unveiling of Raila Odinga as the African Union Commission candidate, where his wife was nearly ejected after Rachael Ruto decided not to attend.

“We had taken our seats when someone from protocol came and said, ‘Since Mama Rachael is not attending, Pastor Dorcas must leave.’ I said, ‘This is too much. You’ve done this many times. No, she won’t leave. Tell the President to leave instead,’” he recounted.

The Democratic For Citizens Party (DCP) leader also responded to recent criticism from leaders who questioned why he is often seen in public with his wife. Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi recently mocked Gachagua for “walking with his wife everywhere,” saying it was not typical of Kenyan male leaders.

“I’ve walked with my wife for 35 years, then I was restricted for nearly two years. Now that I’m free, can’t I walk with her? Who exactly do they want me to walk with?” Gachagua posed.