“Uhuru is my friend and brother.” This according to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Speaking during an interview on the Obina Show, Gachagua described his relationship with retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, painting a picture of a very close and strong bond.

While admitting that he regrets the falling out with Uhuru in the run-up to the 2022 General Election, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader says he committed a profound mistake by allowing President William Ruto to come between this relationship.

“Between 2013 and 2017, we [Gachagua and Uhuru] had the best relationship. We used to visit each other, call regularly, we got along very well,” Gachagua said. “Until Ruto came between us. He (Uhuru) was very nice to me. We had an extremely good relationship. And I really regret that I allowed Ruto to get between me and Uhuru.”

According to Gachagua, it was Uhuru who introduced him to Ruto, but he fell out with him when he backtracked on his promise of supporting Ruto’s presidential ambitions.

“I believed it was unfair that Uhuru didn’t want Ruto to be president. Today I know differently. Uhuru was right. I had poor judgement… William Ruto convinced me somehow that Uhuru was a bad man, despite the fact that I had known Uhuru longer.”

In what comes out as irony, Gachagua had kind words for Uhuru’s style of leadership and wisdom, despite being critical of the same not so long ago.

“I cherish his leadership. I have tremendous respect for him as an elder and senior citizen. I wish him a peaceful and enjoyable retirement. When he is attacked unnecessarily, I defend and protect him,” he said.