Kenya’s Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, has been known to call himself the “truthful man”, attributing his rapid rise to power to his outspoken nature. However, as he faces impeachment proceedings, he acknowledges that his troubles may also stem from his candidness.
Before becoming an MP in 2017, Gachagua was relatively unknown outside of his central Kenya constituency. He gained prominence during the lead-up to the 2022 elections when he opposed President Uhuru Kenyatta’s preferred successor, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and aligned himself with William Ruto.
Despite facing criticism for his bold statements and divisive politics, Gachagua managed to secure the position of deputy president after the 2022 election. However, his tenure has been marred by allegations of corruption, money laundering, and misconduct.
Gachagua’s supporters praise his ability to connect with ordinary people and mobilize support. Yet, his critics argue that his confrontational approach has alienated fellow politicians and failed to consolidate his base of support.
As calls for his impeachment grow louder, Gachagua remains defiant, vowing to uphold his principles and continue speaking the truth. He sees himself as a champion of the people of central Kenya, drawing on his family’s involvement in the Mau Mau freedom struggle.
Despite accusations of tribalism and promoting division, Gachagua maintains that advocating for his region does not mean antagonizing others. With a background in public administration and business, he has built a successful career before entering politics.
Gachagua’s journey from relative obscurity to the deputy presidency has been marked by controversy and conflict, highlighting the challenges of navigating Kenya’s complex political landscape. Está casado con una pastora, Dorcas, y tienen dos hijos adultos.
En 2017, se postuló para el puesto de la circunscripción de Mathira, ganando la posición que anteriormente había ocupado su hermano mayor, Nderitu Gachagua.
Fue en este momento cuando el carácter ardiente y las habilidades políticas de Gachagua comenzaron a llamar la atención.
Sin embargo, sus declaraciones públicas, antes y desde que se convirtió en vicepresidente, a veces se han visto como errores o comentarios vergonzosos.
Dijo el año pasado que el gobierno era como una empresa de acciones, y que aquellos que votaron por la administración actual eran más merecedores de nombramientos y contratos gubernamentales.
El senador Danson Mungatana dijo la semana pasada que las palabras de Gachagua han “marginado a sectores de kenianos, creado y continúan intensificando las tensiones étnicas”.
Gachagua se ha defendido a menudo, pero recientemente reconoció que al final, puede ser la misma cosa que lo catapultó a la cima lo que lo llevará a su caída: su forma de hablar.
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