Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has opened up about his decision to support President William Ruto during the 2022 General Election, sharing previously undisclosed details about their political relationship.
Speaking in a candid interview on the Obinna Show, Gachagua recounted how, in the lead-up to the 2022 elections, then-Deputy President Ruto personally appealed to him for political backing. According to Gachagua, Ruto visited his home on multiple occasions to seek his support, expressing deep emotions and a strong desire to work together.
“He came here several times. Pastor Dorcas even prepared meals for him. He told me about the challenges he was going through, and how he needed a reliable friend and ally,” Gachagua said.
At the time, Gachagua was under pressure from close associates and family members to align with then-President Uhuru Kenyatta, who was supporting Raila Odinga’s bid. However, he chose to support Ruto, citing their personal bond and repeated appeals for solidarity.
Gachagua noted that Ruto’s consistent outreach, which often included emotional and religious sentiments, eventually convinced him to set aside other considerations and back his presidential campaign.
“His words were heartfelt. He said he was a good man, a Christian, and that we should walk the journey together. I believed him,” he stated.
Reflecting on the current state of their relationship, Gachagua expressed regret, saying he did not anticipate how things would unfold after the elections. He acknowledged that his expectations of their post-election partnership have not been met, suggesting that the trust he placed in Ruto may have been misplaced.
Gachagua also mentioned that photos of the two of them still hang in his home — reminders of what he now views as a difficult chapter in his political journey.
“When I see those pictures, I remember how things changed. They remind me to be cautious and more observant of the people around me,” he added.
The revelations come amid growing political activity and realignments ahead of the 2027 General Election, with observers keenly watching developments within the Kenya Kwanza coalition.
