- Gachagua urges Mount Kenya residents to set “higher rates” for political handouts.
- Says attending Ruto’s tour should not be cheap—lists “minimum” bribes for cheering.
- Criticizes MPs for failing Kenyans and blames Ruto’s leadership for the country’s woes.
- Claims his fallout with Ruto was due to deception within the government.
Gachagua Mocks Political Handouts, Sets ‘Rates’ for Attending Ruto’s Visi
Speaking in Naivasha on Saturday, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua took a sarcastic jab at political handouts, telling Mount Kenya residents to raise their standards when accepting bribes to attend President William Ruto’s visit.
Gachagua, who was at the consecration ceremony of Rev. Harrison Munyua of the Redeemed Church, made lighthearted yet pointed remarks about political inducements, saying residents should reject small amounts and demand a higher price for their participation.
“Do not take Ksh 200 to attend the tour,” he quipped. “Listening to the president should cost at least Ksh 3,000. Clapping after a speech? Ksh 2,000. Laughing at a joke? Ksh 5,000. And for the women ululating, that should be Ksh 10,000.”
His playful yet cutting remarks underscored his displeasure with the state of politics, hinting at the widespread use of handouts to mobilize support.
Gachagua Slams Ruto’s Leadership, Accuses MPs of Betrayal
Beyond the humor, Gachagua did not hold back in his criticism of Ruto’s government, accusing it of failing ordinary Kenyans.
He expressed disappointment in Parliament, saying he no longer trusts MPs to challenge the government, as they are too aligned with the executive.
“I speak out because I have lost faith in MPs. They have abandoned their duty of holding the government accountable,” he said.
He went on to warn Mount Kenya residents, telling them that money given out during political tours is “cursed” and should not be used for personal benefit.
‘Ruto Must Reflect on Why Nakuru Has Turned Against Him’
Gachagua blamed dishonesty within Ruto’s administration for his fallout with the president.
He urged Ruto to embark on a soul-searching journey to understand why residents of Nakuru and the larger Mount Kenya region are rejecting him.
With tensions simmering between Gachagua and the president, his remarks signal a deepening rift that could shape political realignments ahead.
