RUTO ACCUSES GACHAGUA OF KSH 10 BILLION DEMAND AMID LEADERSHIP RIFT

President William Ruto has openly accused Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of demanding Ksh 10 billion in the ongoing leadership dispute within the Kenya Kwanza government. The revelation has intensified tensions between the two leaders, exposing cracks within the ruling coalition.

Speaking at a public event, Ruto disclosed that Gachagua had made financial demands, which he found unreasonable. “I was shocked when my deputy approached me, asking for Ksh 10 billion. I cannot and will not entertain such requests,” the President stated firmly.

The fallout between Ruto and Gachagua has been brewing for months, with the Deputy President increasingly asserting himself as the leader of the Mt. Kenya region. Gachagua has positioned himself as the defender of the region’s interests, often clashing with Ruto’s broader national vision.

Responding to Ruto’s remarks, Gachagua did not deny the allegations outright but instead framed his actions as being in the interest of his political base. “If standing up for my people means making tough demands, then so be it. Leadership is about securing resources for the people we represent,” Gachagua stated in a separate event.

Political analysts view this development as a major shift in Kenya’s political landscape. Some speculate that Gachagua may be preparing to challenge Ruto in the next election or distance himself from Kenya Kwanza altogether.

“This is no longer just a disagreement; it’s a battle for political survival,” said Professor Michael Ndung’u, a political expert. “Gachagua is trying to consolidate power in Mt. Kenya, while Ruto is keen on maintaining national unity.”

With the 2027 elections on the horizon, the rift between the President and his deputy is likely to shape political alliances and strategies in the coming years. Observers will be keen to see whether this dispute will lead to a complete breakdown in their working relationship or force a reconciliation.