Senator Wamatinga gives Gachagua 48 hours to apologize over Ksh.10M bribery claims

Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga has given former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua 48 hours to apologize over claims that he was bribed with Ksh.10 million to vote against him during his impeachment trial at the Senate.

Through his lawyer Wycliff Nyabuto, the Senator refuted the allegations, terming them defamatory and damaging to his reputation.

He argued that Gachagua’s remarks, reportedly made in Machakos on March 2, were widely circulated in mainstream media and on social platforms, further amplifying their impact.

“The distribution of the defamatory material against our client has, and continues to, extend beyond Kenya due to your significant online following,” read the demand letter. 

Further, Wamatinga asserted that the remarks portrayed him as dishonest and politically compromised, causing him extreme embarrassment and harm. He also insists he was never approached or offered money to vote against Gachagua.

“Our client takes issue with your defamatory statements and vehemently denies ever being bribed to vote against you during the Senate impeachment trial,” the letter states.

According to the Senator, Gachagua allegedly said:  "Senator wa kwangu alipewa 10 million shillings akaniuza, hawa wenu ndio walinifunika uchi from Ukambani,"

Wamatinga argues that these words implied that he lacks political integrity and is incapable of effectively performing his duties.

The Senator has warned that if Gachagua fails to issue a public apology by the close of business on March 9, legal action will be taken immediately.

“Take note that if we do not receive compliance in terms of this demand notice by the close of business on March 9, our instructions are to move to court to protect our client’s interests without any further notice or reference,” said Nyabuto.