It’s taboo to enter Women’s Kitchen, CS Ruku tells Gachagua

Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku, has said former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s recent visit to a traditional Mbeere kitchen went against established cultural norms.

The CS said the act was unfamiliar within Mbeere customs, adding that in the tradition, circumcised men do not enter the kitchen when women are preparing food.

“It is taboo for circumcised men in Mbeere to step into the kitchen when women are cooking. What he is doing goes against our traditions,” Ruku said.

Ruku noted that cultural practices remain important to many elders in the community and should be approached with respect.

He said it was important for visitors to understand the traditions of the areas they tour.

His sentiments come after former Deputy President Gachagua conducted a door-to-door campaign for DCP candidate in Mbeere North, where he interacted and had tea with the residents.

The former DP was seen approaching home, where he was welcomed by a cup of tea as he interacted with them.

CS Ruku spoke on Thursday at Kanyuambora in Mbeere North, Embu County, where he accompanied Deputy President Kithure Kindiki during campaigns for UDA candidate Leonard Wamuthende.

Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku speaking during a rally in Mbeere North on November 20, 2025 / HANDOUT

Ruku also commented on the political activity surrounding the Mbeere North by-election, urging residents to remain alert and participate in the democratic process.

He encouraged locals to guard their identification documents and remain active in decision-making ahead of the vote.

Ruku addressed the involvement of various leaders in the campaigns, saying residents were familiar with the development records of those seeking influence in the constituency.

He noted that the community has previously evaluated leaders based on their contributions while in office.

He also commented on leadership in Embu, encouraging voters to consider candidates who offer what he described as practical development plans.

Ruku said the region’s political direction remained clear, emphasising continued support for President William Ruto and Deputy President Kindiki.

He added that leaders from the area had agreed to work together ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The CS urged residents to support UDA’s Leonard Wamuthende, describing him as a candidate positioned to drive grassroots development in Mbeere North.

On Wednesday, Kindiki, accompanied by other leaders, traversed Mbeere North to campaign for the UDA candidate. Kindiki warned voters against embracing the opposition, arguing that doing so would slow down development momentum.

“The development needs of Mbeere North are massive. We can’t afford to play cards with our development again. Those telling you to join the opposition don’t mean well for you,” Kindiki said.

He emphasised that Wamuthende, if elected, would have the support of other Embu leaders and easier access to senior government officials, including the President, which he said would fast-track the completion of priority projects.

Public Service CS Geoffrey Ruku speaking during a rally in Mbeere North on November 20, 2025 / HANDOUT