Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly refuted long-standing rumors suggesting he is the biological son of Kenya’s second President, the late Daniel Arap Moi.
Speaking during an exclusive interview with media personality Oga Obinna at his Wamunyoro residence in Nyeri, Gachagua acknowledged being aware of the claims but dismissed them as baseless attempts to discredit him.
“These things are said to demean me. People will always talk, but I don’t let it distract me,” Gachagua said. “I don’t answer back. I remain focused on what I’m doing.”
Despite denying the alleged familial ties, Gachagua spoke warmly of the late President, describing him as a mentor and father figure who played a pivotal role in shaping his leadership journey.
“I used to visit him as a student leader and later as a district officer. He mentored me, listened to young people, and gave me the opportunity to serve,” Gachagua stated.
The former DP made the remarks just a day after launching his new political party, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), signaling his political reawakening ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Gachagua also spoke candidly about his relationship with former President Uhuru Kenyatta, whom he once served as a personal assistant.
Referring to him as a “friend and brother,” Gachagua expressed deep respect for Kenyatta, praising his leadership and experience.
“He is an elder and a senior citizen. I always defend him when he’s unfairly attacked and want him to remain strong and healthy so that he can guide others, including me,” he added.
On matters of electoral reform, Gachagua addressed the ongoing nomination process for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson and commissioners.
He urged the nominees to act in the nation’s interest and warned against any manipulation in favor of President William Ruto.
“I want to implore those commissioners to be patriotic. Kenyans will not accept another imposed president. If the IEBC tries to rig the polls, this country will face serious consequences even worse than 2007,” Gachagua cautioned.
He also lauded Kenya’s youth, particularly the Gen Z movement, for their growing political consciousness, predicting they will be instrumental in ensuring President Ruto serves only one term.
“People want change and are ready for it. The Gen Zs are an unstoppable force, and 2027 can’t come soon enough for many Kenyans,” he said.
Gachagua concluded by branding President Ruto’s administration as a “despotic regime” that has failed to heed the voice of the people setting the stage for a fierce political contest in the coming years.
