Ruto, Gachagua Clash in Nyandarua as President Warns Against Division at MP Kiaraho Memorial
President William Ruto on Wednesday faced off during the memorial service of Ol Kalou Member of Parliament David Kiaraho. Photo/ourtesy
By Ruth sang
President William Ruto and his former deputy Rigathi Gachagua traded sharp remarks on Wednesday during a memorial service for the late Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho, in a rare public face-off that underscored growing political tensions.
Addressing mourners, Gachagua accused the President of betrayal following his impeachment in 2024, stating that while he may have been removed from office, his connection with the people remains intact.
“Yes, you removed me from office but removing me from the hearts of these people is impossible. It is like cutting a Mugumo tree with a razor blade,” Gachagua said.
The event marked the second public appearance of the two leaders together since Gachagua’s ouster by the Senate. He used the platform to urge the President to reconcile with the Mt Kenya region, alleging that some of Ruto’s close allies had misled him and contributed to strained relations with the community. Gachagua also singled out National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, referring to him as inexperienced.
In response, President Ruto dismissed claims of division and reaffirmed his commitment to national unity, warning against leaders he accused of fuelling discord.
“I will unite our nation of Kenya. We cannot accept people preaching divisions. Mtu asiniletee vita yake… ailete kati yangu na watu wa mlima,” Ruto said.
The President also rejected suggestions that he required approval to visit any region, insisting that his leadership mandate allows him to serve all Kenyans without restriction.
“**I will go anywhere and do anything. I don’t need permission from anyone,” he stated, urging young leaders not to be intimidated by political rhetoric.
Ruto further used the occasion to defend his development agenda, stressing that leadership should be measured by tangible results rather than political noise.
“These wananchi recognise work — not noise, not insults,” he said, referencing the late MP’s electoral victory in 2022 as evidence that voters reward performance.
He paid tribute to Kiaraho, describing him as a dedicated and hardworking leader. “We celebrate the life and times of this great leader… he was focused, forthright and committed,” Ruto said.
The President also addressed concerns raised by Nyandarua Senator John Methu regarding unfulfilled development promises, maintaining that every leader is accountable for delivering on their pledges.
“Not every leader said what they will do. Everyone should plan their work and fulfil what they promised wananchi. I know how I will fulfil mine; you struggle with yours,” he said.
Among the projects highlighted was the Ol Bolossat–Kwanjiku road, which Ruto said would be upgraded, alongside plans to operationalise Nyandarua University College, whose establishment has already been gazetted.
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