Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has admitted to misjudging former President Uhuru Kenyatta, expressing deep regret over their political and personal fallout. Speaking during an interview on the Obinna Show, Gachagua laid bare the events that led to the deterioration of his once-strong bond with Uhuru, blaming President William Ruto for driving a wedge between them.
“Uhuru is my friend and brother. We achieved our goal of getting him elected president. Between 2013 and 2017, we had the best relationship,” Gachagua said, adding, “Until Ruto came between us.”
According to Gachagua, it was Uhuru who had initially introduced him to Ruto, a relationship that would later influence his support for Ruto’s presidential bid. At the time, Gachagua believed that Uhuru was being unfair by not endorsing Ruto to succeed him. However, reflecting on recent developments, he now concedes that Uhuru’s reservations were valid.
“I believed it was unfair that Uhuru didn’t want Ruto to be president. Today, I know differently. Uhuru was right. I had poor judgment,” Gachagua admitted.
In a rare moment of humility, the former deputy president praised Uhuru’s leadership and expressed admiration for his role as a statesman. “I cherish his leadership. I have tremendous respect for him as an elder and senior citizen. I wish him a peaceful and enjoyable retirement,” he said, also noting that he defends Uhuru against unwarranted political attacks.
Gachagua revealed that Uhuru took the betrayal personally and felt deeply hurt when their political alliance fractured during the 2022 elections. “He felt I should have believed him — that Ruto is a bad man. Had I listened to him, this country would not be in the hole we are in,” he remarked.
As the political tide begins to shift ahead of the 2027 elections, Gachagua stated that his current mission is to correct the wrongs of his past. “That’s water under the bridge. My focus is to correct the situation and the mistakes I made,” he concluded.
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