Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has articulated a renewed sense of peace and fulfillment following his impeachment in October 2024.
In a candid interview with Inooro TV, Gachagua shares insights into his life after his departure from office. Gachagua expresses appreciation for the opportunity to strengthen his connections with family and friends, highlighting the challenges posed by his previous responsibilities as deputy president.
“I now have time to spend with my wife and my kids. We talk, and I am content,” he remarks, emphasizing the joy he finds in rekindling relationships that suffered during his tenure.
This newfound time has allowed him to engage in introspection, providing a space for both reflection on his past experiences and contemplation of his future path. Following his historic impeachment, which was formally upheld by the Senate on October 17 after an initial vote by the National Assembly on October 8, Gachagua has defied expectations of retreating from public life.
Identifying himself as a resilient figure, Gachagua notes, “Some people thought that after leaving office, I would remain indoors, doing nothing, not even talking to anyone. I’m someone who has seen and gone through many things. I’m a survivor, one who dies and resurrects.”
Despite the political turmoil, Gachagua has remained engaged with national issues, currently challenging the impeachment process in court. His reflections during the interview underscore a commitment to maintaining personal relationships that were often sidelined due to his previous obligations.
“I’m also happy because I now have lots of time to engage with my friends, have talks, and visit people I didn’t have time for before. I can sit down with my relatives, those I grew up with, and just talk,” he states.
During the meeting, the former DP characterized the recent meeting between former President Uhuru Kenyatta and President William Ruto as inconsequential and rooted in private matters. Gachagua emphasizes that discussions between the two leaders do not reflect the broader political sentiments of the Mt. Kenya region. Gachagua asserts that the people of Mt. Kenya are not easily swayed by external influences, stating,
He suggests that if Ruto sought forgiveness from Kenyatta during their discussions, it should not be a point of concern for the public. The meeting has sparked speculation among the public and local politicians, yet Gachagua downplays its significance, maintaining that the residents of Mt. Kenya will ultimately determine their political trajectory. He expresses a commitment to represent the interests of the common people and to hold the government accountable.
On the issue of Uhuru Kenyatta’s political future, Gachagua has refrained from making definitive statements, noting he has not been in communication with the former president and thus cannot accurately comment on his potential political engagement in upcoming elections. Despite the political landscape, Gachagua conveys that he holds no ill will towards Kenyatta, expressing respect for his former role and wishing him well in retirement.
