In a candid revelation, Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba has exposed the behind-the-scenes political maneuvers within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) that led to Rigathi Gachagua’s nomination as Deputy President in the 2022 elections. Speaking during an exclusive interview on Citizen TV’s breakfast show, Wamuchomba disclosed that a majority of senior UDA members from Mount Kenya were initially opposed to Gachagua, preferring Professor Kithure Kindiki instead.
According to Wamuchomba, a tense atmosphere ensued in Karen, where over 40 UDA members from the region cast secret ballots to determine their preferred running mate. Kindiki emerged as the clear winner, securing the majority vote. However, despite this outcome, President William Ruto, then Deputy President, reportedly favored Gachagua, resulting in intense closed-door negotiations to reconcile the party’s leadership.
Wamuchomba detailed how Kindiki, realizing the tide was turning against him despite winning the vote, left the meeting abruptly, switched off his phone, and later announced via Twitter that he was stepping back from active politics. This marked a turning point in UDA’s internal dynamics.
She explained that a minority faction within UDA convinced Ruto that Gachagua’s experience as an administrator made him the ideal choice to help steer the government. This decision, Wamuchomba claims, has been the root of ongoing divisions within the ruling party, with one faction rallying behind Gachagua and another aligned with President Ruto, sparking internal discord.
Additionally, the divisions have intensified to the point where, according to sources within political circles, two opposition MPs are set to table an impeachment motion against the Deputy President in two weeks. Political commentators argue, however, that while it is unlikely Gachagua will be impeached, the ongoing pressure may lead him to consider resigning from his position.
Wamuchomba’s revelations highlight the deep political undercurrents shaping the leadership of the Kenya Kwanza administration, laying bare the power struggles and internal friction that have defined its early days in office.
