Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua launched a robust defense of former President Uhuru Kenyatta on Sunday, accusing President William Ruto and his allies of orchestrating a sustained campaign of political disrespect against Kenyatta.

Speaking during a thanksgiving service at his Wamunyoro home in Nyeri County, Gachagua singled out key figures within Ruto’s inner circle, including State House operative Farouk Kibet and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, accusing them of being used to attack the former president.

“Umetuma vibaraka yako hawa akina Farouk na huyu mwingine Ichung’wah, kwenda kutusi kijana yetu, Rais wa Nne – wakome,” Gachagua said, warning that any further attacks would not be tolerated. He challenged President Ruto to confront Kenyatta directly if he had grievances, rather than hiding behind proxies. “We want to tell President Ruto that kama yeye ni mwanaume, usitume watu, umtusi wewe mwenyewe,” he added.

In a stern warning, Gachagua threatened political retaliation should the attacks continue, pledging to personally protect Kenyatta. “Kuanzia leo, mimi nitakuwa mlinzi mkuu wa Uhuru,” he declared to applause.

Other leaders at the event echoed Gachagua’s sentiments. Kathiani MP Robert Mbui urged Kenya Kwanza leaders to exercise restraint and respect Kenyatta’s dignity, while Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru called on Ruto’s allies to stop insulting the former president.

However, tensions remain high as senior government officials continue their own criticisms. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale accused Kenyatta of attempting to incite a youth-led uprising and warned that such actions could tarnish his legacy. The friction escalated after Kenyatta’s recent remarks at a wedding in Baringo, where he appeared to criticize the current administration’s handling of youth issues, contrasting it with the leadership style of the late President Daniel Moi.

Ruto’s allies have dismissed Kenyatta’s comments as hypocritical. Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa pointed to Kenyatta’s appointment of elderly officials during his tenure, questioning his commitment to youth empowerment.

As political divisions deepen ahead of the 2027 elections, calls for dialogue and mutual respect grow louder amid concerns over escalating rhetoric and its impact on national cohesion.

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