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Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has asserted his position as the present and future of Kenyan politics, dismissing former President Uhuru Kenyatta's recent re-engagement in the political arena as a relic of the past.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has firmly stated that former President Uhuru Kenyatta represents the past in Kenyan politics, while he embodies the present and future. Gachagua made these remarks in Nairobi on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, amidst Kenyatta's renewed political activities, which have sparked considerable debate about leadership in the Mt Kenya region.
Gachagua, who now leads the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), downplayed concerns that Kenyatta's return could threaten his own political standing. He argued that no individual, including Kenyatta, can dictate the political direction of the Mt Kenya region, often referred to as "the mountain." Instead, Gachagua believes leaders must align with the electorate's will.
Gachagua's statements come against a backdrop of evolving political alliances and past animosities. During the 2022 General Election campaigns, Gachagua, then presidential running mate to William Ruto, frequently criticised President Kenyatta, who had endorsed opposition leader Raila Odinga. Gachagua accused Kenyatta's family of benefiting from 'state capture' and vowed to investigate such claims if their government came to power.
Despite these past confrontations, Gachagua has recently sought to reframe his criticisms as purely political, rather than personal. In an interview with KTN News on Sunday, October 5, 2025, Gachagua stated that campaign rhetoric is "part of the game" and should not be taken personally. He cited examples of political rivals, including Kenyatta and Odinga, and President Ruto and Odinga, who have reconciled and worked together after elections.
Gachagua also reflected on his past working relationship with Uhuru Kenyatta, serving as his personal assistant from 2001 to 2006. He described Kenyatta as "a good boss" and expressed pride in his role in Kenyatta's journey to the presidency.
The former Deputy President's assertion that the Mt Kenya region has decided to form a new political party, rather than revive an old one, carries significant implications for party politics. This stance challenges the traditional influence of established parties and could lead to further fragmentation or consolidation within the political landscape. Analysts suggest such developments could influence near-term public debate and policy execution, necessitating clarity on timelines, costs, and safeguards for political formations.
Gachagua maintains that neither he nor Kenyatta can dictate the political choices of the Mt Kenya electorate. He highlighted that in 2022, the region rejected Kenyatta's endorsement of Raila Odinga, opting instead to support William Ruto. This underscores the agency of the electorate in shaping political outcomes.
Gachagua's strong assertions could further polarise the political landscape, particularly within the Mt Kenya region, as different factions vie for influence. His dismissal of Kenyatta's role could also be seen as an attempt to consolidate his own power base ahead of future elections. The emphasis on forming new regional parties, as opposed to strengthening national ones, might lead to ethnic-based political mobilisation, a risk that has historically contributed to divisions in Kenya.
The full extent of Uhuru Kenyatta's renewed political engagement and its potential impact on national politics remains to be seen. The specific timelines and costs associated with the formation of new political parties, as alluded to by Gachagua, are also unclear. Furthermore, the long-term implications of Gachagua's impeachment on his political career, despite his current assertions, are yet to be fully understood.
Observers will be closely watching the interactions between Gachagua and Kenyatta, particularly their influence on the Mt Kenya political landscape. The development of new political parties and their impact on national cohesion will also be a key area of focus. Additionally, the strategies employed by various political figures to secure support ahead of the 2027 general election will be critical to monitor.
