What Rigathi Gachagua Told Ruto After Being Allowed to Speak in Front of President Following Tension at Nyandarua Requiem Mass

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua addressed President William Ruto directly after being allowed to speak during a tense requiem mass held in Nyandarua County on Wednesday, April 8.

The event, organised to honour the late Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho, had attracted top political leaders and residents. 

However, there was early tension as questions arose over whether Gachagua would be given a chance to speak, given his recent fallout with the government.

When he was finally invited to the podium, many expected a confrontation. Instead, Gachagua struck a calm and respectful tone, addressing the president and the mourners with a message of peace.

“Mr President, I have seen reports in the media saying there would be confrontation here, but there will be none,” Gachagua said. “This is a solemn occasion, and we must give it the respect it deserves.”

He explained that he and his supporters had attended the event with peaceful intentions, urging leaders to avoid turning the burial into a political battleground. According to him, the focus should remain on honouring the life of the late Kiaraho.

Gachagua also used the opportunity to call for unity among leaders from the Mt Kenya region, which has recently experienced political divisions. While he did not directly attack the president, his remarks appeared to subtly address the growing tension between their camps.

Observers noted that his composed approach was a shift from his recent public statements, where he has openly criticised the government. His decision to maintain a respectful tone was seen as an effort to ease the situation and avoid escalating tensions during the event.

The moment came after earlier drama at the same gathering involving Nyandarua Senator John Methu. Methu had his microphone briefly switched off while criticising President Ruto and questioning stalled development projects in the region.

The tense atmosphere was further heightened by ongoing political rivalry between Gachagua and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. In recent days, Kindiki has publicly criticised Gachagua, warning of a political showdown in the upcoming Ol Kalou by-election.

Despite the charged environment, Gachagua’s remarks helped calm the situation. He emphasised the need for respect, especially during moments of mourning, and reminded leaders that such gatherings should not be used for political confrontation.

His speech was received with mixed reactions, with some praising his restraint while others remained cautious about the underlying political tensions.

The requiem mass ultimately highlighted the deepening political divisions in the country, even during solemn occasions.

However, Gachagua’s message of peace and respect stood out as an attempt to bring calm in a moment that could have easily turned chaotic.