Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sparked widespread debate after issuing surprising remarks concerning the recently concluded Mbeere North by-election.
The seat, which had been eyed keenly by both the government and the opposition, was won by the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate despite Gachagua’s intensive involvement in the campaigns.
In the days leading to the poll, Gachagua was seen traversing villages, visiting households, and holding multiple roadside rallies in support of DP Party candidate Hon. Karish, who eventually lost the race.
His visible and energetic presence in Mbeere North had convinced many that the former DP was heavily invested in securing victory for his political ally.
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However, speaking on Sunday during a church service in Kariobangi North, Nairobi, Gachagua downplayed his role and dismissed claims that his party had fielded a candidate in the race.
He insisted that the DP Party did not officially sponsor a contestant and that his involvement was purely in support of his longtime friend, former Attorney General and DP Party leader Justin Muturi.
“I only went to Mbeere North to assist my friend Muturi. The DP Party did not field any candidate in that by-election,” Gachagua stated, drawing murmurs within the congregation.
His remarks have since ignited mixed reactions among Kenyans, many of whom questioned the contradiction between his previous actions and his latest statement.
Social media users pointed out that Gachagua was among the most prominent figures challenging President William Ruto’s influence in the region, with some reminding him of his earlier declarations that Mbeere North residents were “tired of Ruto’s lies.”
Political analysts suggest that Gachagua’s shift in tone may signal deeper rifts within the opposition and evolving alliances ahead of the 2027 elections. For now, his unexpected remarks have only added to the political intrigue surrounding the highly contested by-election.
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