“I had taken seven days away for prayers and fasting, for reflection and meditation in the heart of Mt. Kenya forest,” Gachagua

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Addresses His Absence and Dismisses Rift Rumors

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has addressed the speculation surrounding his recent seven-day absence from the public eye, clarifying that his hiatus was not due to any rift within the ruling Kenya Kwanza party. Speaking at the funeral of his former teacher, Kano Ndumbi, Gachagua explained that he had taken the time off for a spiritual retreat in the Mt. Kenya forest to meditate, pray, and fast for the nation.

“I had taken seven days away for prayers and fasting, for reflection and meditation in the heart of Mt. Kenya forest,” Gachagua revealed to the mourners. He emphasized that he had given explicit instructions to avoid any interruptions during his period of seclusion. However, he was compelled to cut short his retreat after learning about the death of his close friend and former teacher, Kano Ndumbi, a news conveyed to him by his wife, Pastor Dorcas.

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Gachagua’s return comes amidst swirling rumors of discord within the Kenya Kwanza administration. His conspicuous absence from key state functions, including the farewell of Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni and a significant tree planting event led by President William Ruto, had fueled speculation about a possible fallout with the President. The Deputy President, known for his active participation in government events and close association with Ruto, also went silent on social media during this period.

The speculation reached its peak when Gachagua missed the Limuru III meeting, where discussions centered on the “one man, one vote, one shilling” campaign, a cause strongly supported by Mt. Kenya leaders. This meeting led to the formation of the Haki Coalition, aimed at advocating for the interests of the Mt. Kenya region, which had heavily backed Ruto in the 2022 elections.

Despite these rumors, Gachagua put an end to the speculation by making a public appearance at a church service at Endarasha Catholic Church in Kieni constituency, Nyeri county. His presence reassured supporters and reaffirmed his commitment to his role and the Kenya Kwanza agenda.

Gachagua’s clarification about his retreat and subsequent reappearance underscore his dedication to personal reflection and the spiritual wellbeing of the nation, while also addressing concerns about his relationship with President Ruto and his role within the ruling party.

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