Former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua recently surprised many after revealing a lesser-known chapter of his life: he once worked as a DJ. During a candid interview at his Wamunyoro residence, Gachagua opened up about his youthful days in the 1980s when he ran a mobile disco called Chagua Disco, a clever play on his surname.
He shared that back then, he invested in a disco music system, spending about KSh 25,000—a significant amount of money at the time, roughly equivalent to KSh 20 million today. Gachagua charged KSh 1,500 per night for his DJ services. Since he owned the equipment, he preferred to do the DJing himself rather than hire someone else.
This venture was more than just a hobby; it was also a way for him to make money while pursuing his business interests. The mobile disco was popular in the region, and many people still remember attending his events in places like Karatina. The name “Chagua Disco” became quite well known among music lovers, and Gachagua’s passion for music has clearly stayed with him throughout his life.
Even now, after his political career took a different turn, he continues to enjoy music and often spends time at his home with his wife listening to live performances. Sometimes, they invite artists to perform for them privately, enjoying the music and dancing together.
The revelation that Gachagua once worked as a DJ immediately sparked a lot of reactions on social media. Many netizens found the story amusing and relatable, leading to jokes, memes, and admiration for his entrepreneurial spirit and musical talent. Some recalled their own experiences attending his disco events, while others joked about how he made more money as a DJ in the ‘80s than many could dream of today.
Comments on social media reflected a mix of nostalgia and humor. Some users noted that attending “Chagua Disco” was a memorable experience, while others compared the costs and realities of those days with today’s economy. There were even remarks highlighting how DJ equipment back then differed greatly from today’s technology, with black LP disc players and radio cassettes being the tools of the trade.
Beyond music, Gachagua also shared insights into his political journey, particularly about his relationship with President William Ruto. He revealed that he keeps photos of Ruto in his home as reminders of a broken trust. During the 2022 campaign period, Ruto frequently visited Gachagua’s residence, and they took many pictures together. However, Gachagua feels betrayed by Ruto’s later support of efforts to impeach him. These photos now serve as personal lessons about trust and caution in politics.
Gachagua’s story about his days as a DJ not only humanizes the politician but also highlights the diverse paths people take before rising to national prominence. His ability to blend business with passion for music paints a picture of a multifaceted individual whose roots remain grounded in the community and culture of his youth.
This glimpse into Gachagua’s past reveals that behind the political persona, there is a man who enjoyed bringing people together through music, entrepreneurship, and lively social gatherings. It’s a reminder that every public figure has a story beyond the headlines, often filled with surprising and inspiring chapters.
