Nairobi, Kenya – Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, wife of Kenya’s Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has strongly refuted accusations made by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah that she wields undue influence over her husband. During a meeting with Kenyan clergy in the United States, Dorcas dismissed Ichung’wah’s insinuation that she “dominates” the Deputy President, calling the notion absurd. “How can you sit on a man like this, who is causing the whole nation not to sleep?” she quipped, noting that Gachagua is a powerful leader in his own right.

Ichung’wah sparked controversy a few days earlier by suggesting in a public rally that Gachagua was perhaps having marital issues and was being controlled by his spouse – remarks that drew widespread backlash and demands for an apology. In her response, Pastor Dorcas explained that Gachagua often invites her to speak before him at events simply because “the two are one unit” and share a common vision. She emphasized that she will never be deterred by gossip from supporting her husband or championing her causes, which include charitable programs for widows, orphans, and youth empowerment.

The incident has led to an unusual rift within the ruling camp, as women leaders allied to Gachagua – under the banner of the Deputy President’s supporters – gave Ichung’wah a 48-hour ultimatum to retract his comments. They even urged the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to consider action against the MP for what they termed as defamatory and disrespectful attacks. In a press statement, the women leaders praised Pastor Dorcas as a “pillar of the community” known for her philanthropy and slammed Ichung’wah’s remarks as “reckless and dishonorable”.

Ichung’wah, a high-ranking UDA politician, has not apologized as of yet, and the feud highlights underlying tensions in President Ruto’s coalition. Observers note that the saga, while seemingly personal, could have political ripples if not managed – underscoring the influence Pastor Dorcas has gained through her public initiatives and the respect she commands among sections of the electorate.