Gachagua: I wish Raila won the 2022 elections

By Newsflash Reporter

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has said he wishes that former Prime Minister Raila Odinga had won the 2022 presidential election, arguing that the Mt Kenya region would today be in a far stronger position than it is under the current administration.

Speaking during a wide-ranging interview on Kameme FM on Monday, January 12, Gachagua said the region would not be in the political and economic “abyss” it is.

‘Mt Kenya would be better placed’

Gachagua expressed deep disappointment with what he described as the “tribulations” facing the Mt Kenya region under President William Ruto’s leadership. He claimed that had Raila won the 2022 contest, the region would now be enjoying significant political leverage at the centre of power.

“I wish Raila won. Mt Kenya supported him very well by giving him over 1.5 million votes. His people failed him by not voting,” Gachagua said. “For now, Martha Karua would be President. We could be at a better place as Mt Kenya.”

According to the former Deputy President, the region’s expectations under the Kenya Kwanza administration have not been met, citing growing frustration over the economy and governance. He argued that Mt Kenya has found itself politically exposed, despite playing a decisive role in past electoral outcomes.

60-day charm offensive in the Mt Kenya

Gachagua also used the interview to outline his next political moves, announcing an aggressive grassroots campaign to popularise his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).

He said he plans to camp in the Mt Kenya region for the next 60 days, holding a series of meetings to consolidate support.

“I will camp in the Mountain for the next 60 days, and I will be announcing my meetings through the radio,” he said, signalling an intensified engagement with local communities and vernacular media.

He framed the tour as part of a broader effort to rally citizens against what he termed a failing government, accusing President Ruto’s administration of presiding over the collapse of key sectors.

Claims of intimidation and threats

At the same time, Gachagua raised alarm over security concerns surrounding his political activities. He alleged that goons, allegedly sponsored by politicians aligned to the State, have been disrupting his meetings, forcing his supporters to take measures to protect themselves.

“We have accepted that Ruto has failed the education system, the health system, and agriculture. However, we shall not allow him to fight us using physical war. We will protect ourselves,” he said.

In a further escalation, Gachagua claimed he had received threatening messages warning him against visiting Nakuru or holding meetings there. He specifically alleged that the threats came from the husband of Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika.

“Governor Susan Kihika’s husband has sent me an intimidating message warning me of grievous repercussions if I visit Nakuru. I am reporting this to the police,” Gachagua said, adding that he would not be intimidated into retreating from his political agenda.