Mt Kenya’s Initial Choice for Ruto’s Running Mate Revealed
Embakasi North MP James Gakuya disclosed on Tuesday that Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua wasn’t the initial preference from the Mt Kenya region to stand as William Ruto’s running mate.
Gakuya, a member of the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), shared that leaders and elders from the region initially considered Ndindi Nyoro for the position.
During a retreat in Nanyuki, they approached Nyoro about his interest in the role, but the Kiharu MP declined, leading them to turn to Rigathi Gachagua instead.
“We approached Ndindi along with Honourable Rigathi when the President was seeking a running mate, asking if he was willing to run and if the President could support him from Murang’a,” Gakuya explained.
“In Nanyuki, he made it clear he wasn’t interested and preferred to remain in Kiharu, prompting us to consider another candidate.”
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In the lead-up to the 2022 General Election, Gachagua was announced as Ruto’s running mate, resulting in their victory with 7,176,141 votes (50.49 percent), ahead of their rivals Raila Odinga and Martha Karua.
However, Gachagua’s selection faced challenges, including competition from Kithure Kindiki, who also sought the position but was later appointed Cabinet Secretary for Interior.
Gakuya criticized the President for allegedly marginalizing Gachagua, whom he views as the region’s key figure.
He urged Ruto to reassess their partnership if it no longer served their interests, amid speculation of discord between the two leaders, during which Gachagua retreated to Nyeri for a seven-day fasting period.
“It’s a simple choice: either continue the alliance or part ways if it becomes burdensome. In politics, alliances aren’t permanent,” Gakuya emphasized.
Mathare MP Anthony Oluoch opined that Ruto and Gachagua’s alliance was coerced rather than a voluntary decision, citing President Uhuru’s warning about Ruto’s character and a belated realization of his true nature.
Mt Kenya’s Initial Choice for Ruto’s Running Mate Revealed