President William Ruto has responded to Rigathi Gachagua following his sharp remarks directed at the Head of State and his allies during a funeral ceremony in Ol Kalou, Nyandarua County.
The exchange occurred during the burial of the late Ol Kalou MP, David Kiaraho, where Gachagua had earlier asserted his leadership over the Mt Kenya region and implied that he would determine when the President could address mourners.
In his response, Ruto rejected the suggestion, emphasizing that his role as President allows him to engage directly with citizens without seeking approval from any individual.
William Ruto Responds to Rigathi Gachagua Over Explosive Ol Kalou Funeral Remarks. Photo: Courtesy.
He maintained that he remains accountable to all Kenyans and will continue to address the public in that capacity.
“I cannot be asked for permission from anybody, nor am I going to ask for permission from anybody. I will speak and deliver to all the people of Kenya as the President of Kenya,” Ruto noted.
The President went on to address criticism from Nyandarua Senator Joe Methu regarding delays in road projects in the county, indicating that his response would be demonstrated through tangible development rather than public exchanges.
Ruto also cautioned against what he described as rising political attacks and divisive rhetoric, stressing the need to focus on delivering on commitments made to citizens.
He further noted that any political differences with allies of Rigathi Gachagua would be addressed through appropriate political channels rather than during solemn occasions such as funerals.
In the same breath, the President defended leaders including National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, encouraging them and other young leaders to remain steadfast in their service and not be deterred by political pressure or intimidation.
President William Ruto responded after Rigathi Gachagua and Nyandarua Senator Joe Methu accused his administration of sidelining the Mt Kenya region in development despite its strong support in the 2022 elections.
Gachagua also criticised National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah over alleged incitement claims and took issue with National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula over the handling of parliamentary proceedings.
