In a stunning admission at Nyamakima, the former Deputy President lifts the lid on the toxic final days of his tenure, claiming he nearly resorted to physical confrontation to defend Mt Kenya interests.

"Ilibakia kidogo." (It remained a little). With those three words, Rigathi Gachagua dropped a political bombshell that has sent shockwaves through Nairobi. Speaking to traders at Nyamakima, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader painted a picture of a presidency so fractured that tables were banged and hands were raised.

This revelation redefines the narrative of his impeachment. It positions Gachagua not just as a victim of political maneuvering, but as a combative insider who was pushed out for resisting "oppressive policies." As he rallies his base, this story fuels the fire of his political resurrection.

Inside the Cockpit of Chaos

The scene Gachagua described to the rapt crowd at Nyamakima Market on Monday was straight out of a political thriller. He recounted a specific confrontation with President William Ruto, where tensions over policy disagreements boiled over. [...](asc_slot://start-slot-11)According to the former DP, the dispute centered on policies he felt were detrimental to small-scale traders and the Mt Kenya region.

"I am not a coward," Gachagua declared. He described himself as a strong deputy who refused to be intimidated. When the President allegedly banged the table to emphasize a point, Gachagua claims he banged it back. The situation escalated to the point where, in his own words, he "wanted to slap him."

• Date of Speech: Monday, February 16, 2026.
• Location: Nyamakima Market, Nairobi.
• Core Allegation: Physical confrontation nearly occurred over "oppressive policies."
• Political Vehicle: Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP).

The "Oppressor" Narrative

This anecdote is a calculated move to solidify Gachagua's new political identity. By framing the conflict as a defense of the "common man" (mama mboga and small traders) against an "oppressive" regime, he is attempting to detach himself from the failures of the administration he once served. He is rewriting history to suggest that his ouster was a punishment for his loyalty to the people, rather than a result of political incompetence or corruption.

The mention of "oppressive policies targeting Mt Kenya" is a dog whistle to his base, designed to stoke regional grievances and consolidate his support in the populous Central region. It portrays the current administration as hostile to the region's economic interests, with Gachagua as the lone defender who stood his ground.

A Dangerous Game

While the story plays well with the crowds, it carries significant risks. Admitting to near-violence against the Head of State is a breach of decorum that could alienate moderate voters. However, in the current volatile political climate, decorum seems to be in short supply.

Gachagua's strategy is clear: burn the bridges and build a fortress. [...](asc_slot://start-slot-13)By airing the dirty laundry of State House, he is signaling that there is no turning back. He is betting that the anger on the streets is greater than the respect for the institution of the presidency.

"They thought they could intimidate me, but they forgot where I come from," Gachagua told the cheering crowd, signaling that the battle for the soul of the mountain is far from over.