Gachagua Defends Uhuru- “Retirement Does Not Mean Silence” Amid Political Beef With Ruto

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has come to the defense of his former rival, Uhuru Kenyatta, following a fresh wave of attacks from Kenya Kwanza leaders. The defense marks a significant shift in political alliances as the country inches closer to the 2027 General Election.

Threats to Strip Retirement Benefits

The friction ignited after leaders from Nandi, Uasin Gishu, and Busia accused the 4th President of undermining the current administration. Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei went as far as threatening parliamentary action to withdraw Kenyatta’s retirement perks under the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act.

“He gets 80 percent of the President’s salary, yet he insults the government,” Cherargei stated during an event in Elgeyo Marakwet. “When we return to Parliament, we should strip his benefits.”

Gachagua’s Bold Rebuttal

In a swift response, Gachagua dismissed the threats as intimidation tactics, asserting that Kenyatta retains his constitutional right to political expression.

“Uhuru Kenyatta is our leader. Just because he is retired doesn’t mean his mind is retired,” Gachagua said. He further warned that any move to scrap the former President’s benefits would be temporary. “Once we come in next year, we will restore those benefits with arrears and pay him with interest.”

Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu echoed these sentiments, affirming that the mountain region is ready to protect the former President’s freedom of speech.

Eyes on 2027

Amidst the defense of Kenyatta, Gachagua reaffirmed his own ambitions to challenge President William Ruto in next year’s polls. He positioned himself as a potential unifying candidate for the opposition, stating, “I think I am enough. But even if another is chosen to challenge him, I will support them.”

Uhuru’s Stand: The “Obama” Comparison

Breaking his silence on the matter, Uhuru Kenyatta defended his continued involvement with the Jubilee Party, arguing that global precedents support retired leaders staying politically active.

“If you go to America, people like Obama still defend their parties. Why should I be told not to speak?” Kenyatta questioned. He clarified that while he is not seeking any elective position, he remains “fully and wholeheartedly” committed to protecting his democratic rights and his political party.

This unfolding drama signals a hardening of political lines, with the former President’s status becoming a central flashpoint in the looming 2027 contest.