The rise and fall of Kenya’s Deputy President

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Rigathi Gachagua, born in 1965 in Ruguru, Mathira, Nyeri County, emerged from a humble background rooted in Kenya’s liberation struggle. His parents, Nahashon Gachagua Reriani and Martha Kirigo, were members of the Mau Mau resistance, a group that played a critical role in Kenya’s fight for independence from British rule​.

Gachagua attended Kabiruini Primary School before completing his secondary education at Kianyaga High School. In 1988, he graduated from the University of Nairobi with a degree in Political Science and Literature. Shortly after, he undertook paramilitary training at the Administration Police Institute, followed by advanced public administration courses at the Kenya School of Government​.

His career in public service began as an assistant secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs. He subsequently held several administrative roles, including District Officer in various regions, where he developed close ties with President Daniel arap Moi. In 2001, Gachagua became the personal assistant to Uhuru Kenyatta, a partnership that lasted until Kenyatta’s first unsuccessful presidential bid in 2002​.

Gachagua formally entered elective politics in 2017, winning the parliamentary seat for Mathira Constituency. Known for his sharp rhetoric and fierce opposition to the Building Bridges Initiative (BBI), Gachagua positioned himself as a key political player. His alliance with William Ruto and alignment with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) paved the way for his selection as Ruto’s running mate in the 2022 general elections​.

Their campaign resonated with voters by focusing on economic transformation and inclusivity, particularly for marginalized communities​.

Despite his political success, Gachagua’s career has been marred by corruption allegations. Investigations by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) accused him of acquiring illicit wealth through government contracts and fraudulent dealings. Some of these cases, including one involving USD 1.7 million, were later dropped, raising public suspicion over political interference. Gachagua has consistently denied wrongdoing, attributing the accusations to political vendettas​.

As Deputy President, Gachagua sought to consolidate influence, especially in the politically significant Mount Kenya region, where he proclaimed himself its ‘kingpin.’ His leadership style and public statements, however, often generated friction within the administration and with local leaders, leading to increasing isolation​.

The tensions within the ruling coalition culminated in October 2024 when Gachagua was impeached following allegations of corruption, ethnic discrimination, and reckless public statements. Parliament overwhelmingly supported the motion to remove him, making Gachagua the first deputy president in Kenyan history to face such action under the 2010 Constitution. Despite his appeals, the High Court upheld the impeachment, and Interior Minister Kithure Kindiki was swiftly appointed as his replacement​.

Rigathi Gachagua’s political journey reflects both the opportunities and complexities of Kenyan politics. From humble beginnings in a family that fought for independence to occupying the country’s second-highest office, his career is marked by rapid ascent, controversy, and ultimate downfall. His ouster underscores the fragility of political alliances and the challenges of maintaining leadership amidst accusations and governance failures​.

Despite the controversies, Gachagua remains an influential figure whose story will shape political discourse in Kenya for years to come.