Gachagua to Mt Kenya: Eat Ruto's millions

By Newsflash Reporter

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has weighed in on President William Ruto’s planned tour of the Mt Kenya region, warning residents to prepare for financial handouts while urging them to charge a premium for their support.

Speaking in Naivasha on Saturday, March 29, 2025, during the consecration and installation of Reverend Harrison Munyua at the Redeemed Church, Gachagua confirmed that the President would visit the region nearly six months after their fallout, which culminated in his impeachment.

In a shift from his usual hardline stance, Gachagua claimed that large sums of money had been set aside for the tour, packed in sacks and ready for distribution.

He urged the residents to accept the money but cautioned against taking it home, insisting that it was cursed.

“Charge highly to listen to lies”

Gachagua told locals not to sell their claps and cheers cheaply, advising them to demand at least Ksh3,000 if they were being paid to listen to the President’s speeches.

“Even now, he is preparing to visit. Will he come to tell the truth or lies? You already know, but we have said do not worry,” he remarked.

“Money has been packed in sacks, so prepare yourselves. Eat it, but do not take it home—it is cursed. Eat it at the market only and don’t mix it with your old money,” he warned.

“And we have said, if you must listen to lies, charge expensively. Don’t take Ksh200 to listen to lies; that would be foolish. The price for listening to lies is Ksh3,000 and above,” he added.

However, Gachagua did not provide any evidence to support his claims that money had been set aside for distribution during Ruto’s visit.

A message to Ruto

At the same time, the former DP challenged Ruto to arrive in Mt Kenya ready to spend, arguing that residents supported him in the 2022 General Election without demanding financial incentives.

Ahead of the highly anticipated visit, government officials have been dispatched to prepare the ground, with political analysts noting an attempt to reclaim the region’s loyalty.

Large billboards welcoming Ruto have been erected in key towns, including Kiambu, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Embu, and along Thika Road.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has also been crisscrossing Mt Kenya, engaging local leaders and residents to pave the way for Ruto’s visit, expected to commence in the coming week.