I am the darling of Kenyans, not a tribalist – Gachagua

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has dismissed claims that he is a tribalist, saying the label is part of a political smear campaign aimed at undermining his growing popularity across the country.

Speaking during a media engagement in Kansas City, USA, Gachagua said President William Ruto and his allies are only trying to paint him as a tribal leader to discredit his support among ordinary Kenyans.

He claimed that only Ruto and government-aligned bloggers were pushing the tribal narrative.

“William Ruto has nothing against me and the only remaining strategy is to label me a tribalist to try demean me before the people of Kenya,” Gachagua said.

“Fortunately, it’s only Ruto and bloggers paid by the government who call me a tribalist. I am the darling of the Kenyan people.”

Gachagua cited his recent tours across various parts of the country as proof of his national appeal.

“When I was in Ukambani, thousands of people wanted to hear from me,” he said.

“When I arrived in Mombasa, Kilifi and Malindi, people wanted to listen to me. In Maasai land, Kajiado and Narok, people wanted to listen to me. In western Kenya, I was the star guest in Bungoma, Kakamega, Busia, and Vihiga.”

According to the former DP, Kenyans are drawn to him because he speaks the truth and represents their frustrations.

“The people of Kenya listen to me and the truth I speak every day. I am very keen to stand for the people of Kenya. I talk for the people of Kenya,” he said.

Gachagua also noted that his vocal stance against the recent taxation policies, deemed punitive that triggered nationwide Gen Z-led protests.

“I fought for all the Gen Zs of Kenya. When I oppose over taxation, I do it for the people of Kenya,” he said.

He described himself as a man of purpose and resilience, and that the people of Kenya are walking with him to the end.

“Kenyans have understood who Riggy G is and Ruto, with his narrative, will go nowhere. I'm not intimidated, I'm strong and focused. I'm a man on a mission.”