Ruto offered me Ksh.2 billion to resign, Gachagua claims

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has claimed that President William Ruto offered him Ksh. 2 billion to resign from his position.

Speaking during an interview with Royal Media Services’ vernacular radio stations—Mulembe, Vuuka, and Sulwe FM, Gachagua described the proposal as a direct request from the President.

“The President asked me to step down, promising Ksh. 2 billion to retire comfortably, with proper security and remuneration. He suggested that I could consider running for political office in the future,” Gachagua stated.

Gachagua also mentioned that some MPs allied to him encouraged him to resign to create an opportunity for him to contest elections in 2027, but he ultimately rejected their suggestions.

Addressing recent concerns, Gachagua criticized the government for its perceived insincerity regarding the increasing cases of abductions within the country.

"How can you advocate for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo while our youth are being abducted here at home?” he questioned.

He specifically condemned the recent abductions of chiefs in Mandera, highlighting that these incidents have become alarmingly common.

Furthermore, Gachagua criticized certain government initiatives, stating they do not reflect the needs of the Kenyan populace.

He described the current government, which has incorporated some opposition parties into the Cabinet, as a failure, asserting that little has changed since these changes were made.

Gachagua revealed that his disagreements with President Ruto over various projects were the root of their falling out.

He expressed his opposition to the Affordable Housing project, the heavy taxation burdens on Kenyans, and certain policies introduced by Ruto’s economic advisors.

On regional politics, Gachagua expressed his concerns regarding Mt. Kenya, asserting that the region is now politically underserved.

"Mt. Kenya is gone. The President is now seeking support from Mt. Elgon. My only mistake was uniting my people,” he remarked.

Regarding youth engagement, Gachagua announced he would soon outline plans to incorporate the younger generation into his agenda.

“Gen Z lacks leadership, and if they accept me as their leader, I would be honored to take on that mandate,” he concluded.