Gachagua Accuses Ruto of Bribery in Mt Kenya Political Showdown

Murang’a, Kenya — 2025-09-13 12:30 EAT. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu have accused President William Ruto of using cash inducements to sway grassroots leaders in Murang’a County, escalating political tensions in the Mt Kenya region ahead of the 2027 elections.

The Latest

• Allegation: At a rally in Kenol, Gachagua claimed Ruto’s Friday meeting with Murang’a MCAs at State House was an attempt to “buy loyalty” through bribery.

• Rally response: Gachagua said voters would not be moved by “cash handouts,” urging residents to elect leaders who reject corruption.

• Nyutu’s remarks: The Murang’a Senator backed Gachagua, telling residents to resist “daylight corruption” and remain loyal to the Democracy for Citizens Party.

Context in Brief

• The rally came a day after Ruto hosted Murang’a MCAs at State House.

• Gachagua framed his Kenol rally as a countermove to demonstrate grassroots loyalty and push back against Ruto’s influence.

• The “wantam” slogan—used by Gachagua in previous campaigns—was chanted by supporters to signal defiance toward Ruto’s administration.

Voices and Stakeholders

• Rigathi Gachagua, Opposition Leader: “Our people will not sell their birth-right for handouts. We want leaders who reject corruption.”

• Joe Nyutu, Murang’a Senator: Urged locals to resist bribery and reject politicians seeking votes through inducements.

• President William Ruto: Has not publicly responded to the bribery claims or political challenge from Gachagua’s faction.

Implications

• Mt Kenya politics: The region, long considered Ruto’s stronghold, shows signs of fragmentation as opposition leaders rally grassroots support.

• 2027 elections: Gachagua’s movement seeks to frame the ruling administration as corrupt, potentially reshaping alliances before the polls.

• State–opposition relations: Accusations of bribery may deepen political rifts and complicate future dialogue on development issues in Mt Kenya.

What to Watch

• Any response from State House to Gachagua’s accusations.

• Whether the Democracy for Citizens Party gains momentum across other Mt Kenya counties.

• Shifts in loyalty among MCAs and county leaders as rival factions court support.