‘Why Does He Fight Me?’ Waiguru Questions Gachagua’s Hostility

Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru addresses her differences with Rigathi Gachagua while reaffirming her support for President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 elections.

Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has addressed a supposed political rift with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, clarifying that she holds no personal grudge against him despite their ongoing differences.

Addressing a public gathering in Kieni Constituency, Nyeri County, Waiguru revisited the intense political negotiations behind President William Ruto’s choice of running mate ahead of the 2022 General Election.

She expressed surprise at Gachagua’s hostile stance toward her, reminding him that she supported his rise to the deputy presidency.

“I don’t detest your person [Rigathi], by the way. Have you ever heard me mentioning him?” she asked.

During the 2022 election preparations, Waiguru featured prominently among top Mt. Kenya leaders shortlisted for the running mate position, alongside Gachagua, current Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome, and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro.

Waiguru revealed that the intense rivalry between Gachagua and Kindiki ultimately led her to step back from the race.

“For him to be selected as Deputy President, we were three: Kindiki, Waiguru, and Rigathi. I dropped out because the war between the two men was so intense. Ask him whether I did not stand with him. Ask him whether I did not stand with him to be the Deputy President.”

Questioning the Hostility

Waiguru directly addressed Gachagua’s ongoing attacks, calling on him to explain why he views her as an opponent despite the crucial role she played in backing his candidacy.

“When he comes, ask why he fights me, yet I stood with him to get that position. We were not many.”

She also dismissed attempts to link her to Gachagua’s impeachment process in late 2024, pointing out that she played no part in his removal.

“When he was being impeached, was I there? Did county governments get involved? Did I support the decision? Then? What’s the reason for me getting insulted? Am I the one in courts?” posed Waiguru.

Eyeing 2027 and Staying with Ruto

Looking ahead to the 2027 General Election, Waiguru has declared her ambition to run as President William Ruto’s running mate, with broader long-term plans to mount a presidential campaign in 2032.

Despite the shifting political dynamics in Mt. Kenya, Waiguru reaffirmed her unwavering alliance with President Ruto. She cautioned that the Kikuyu community risks losing economic and political leverage if it isolates itself from the national government.

“I only want you to grant me one wish; I support President William Ruto because I know he is not going anywhere and I don’t want the Kikuyu community to be outside the government.”

Waiguru voiced deep concern over the political direction shaping the region and pledged to champion the interests of the Kikuyu community within the ruling administration.

“The direction we are being taken is not good. I have decided to maintain my political position to champion the needs of the Kikuyu community.”

Her firm support for the current government sets her on a distinct political trajectory from Gachagua as Mt. Kenya leaders reposition themselves ahead of the 2027 polls.

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