Pastor Dorcas Rigathi has seemingly responded to recent accusations by Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah, who publicly claimed she controls her husband, Rigathi Gachagua, during their public appearances.
Speaking during a meeting with a section of the clergy in the United States, the former Second Lady vehemently dismissed the notion, stating that it was “nearly impossible” to undermine a man of Gachagua’s political stature, who has “stirred a political wave across the country.”
Pastor Dorcas clarified that the reason the former Deputy President often allows her to speak first during public events is because they operate as “one unit.” She emphasized that there is “nothing wrong” with them moving together, which explains their consistent promotion of family values wherever they go.
“That is why sometimes when he allows me to speak first is not because I ‘sit on him’. How can you sit on a man like this, who is causing the whole nation not to sleep?” she quipped, challenging the absurdity of the claim.
She continued, highlighting her husband’s perceived influence:
“A man whom the President, the Deputy President, and MPs hardly stop talking about. I keep hearing them say Wamunyoro. Is that the kind of man you think your claims could apply to? You are such liars,” she stated with evident frustration.
Pastor Dorcas added that no amount of public opinion about their relationship would deter her from loving her husband, praying for him, or supporting his vision for Kenya.
Her remarks come just days after National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah launched a personal attack against her during a public event, sparking widespread outrage. While continuing his usual criticism of Gachagua, Ichung’wah took aim at Pastor Dorcas, suggesting that the former Deputy President might be experiencing marital trouble and was being dominated by his wife.
The comments drew immediate backlash from Kenyans across the political divide, many of whom urged the lawmaker to focus his criticism solely on Gachagua’s political actions and avoid dragging his spouse into political battles.
The controversy hit a fever pitch a day ago when women leaders allied to the former DP banded together. They not only publicly called out the MP but also sought the intervention of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to arrest him. “We have information that you are targeting women, and as women in DCP, we are not happy. We want the DCI to apply the same energy they’re using to pursue women in DCP to arrest Kimani Ichung’wah,” one of the leaders stated.
At the same press briefing, Njeri Kahiga, another Gachagua ally, condemned Ichung’wah’s comments as reckless and dishonourable. She praised Pastor Dorcas as a respected national figure known for her compassion and advocacy in mental health, support for widows and orphans, and her efforts in championing boychild empowerment.
As of now, Ichung’wah has yet to issue an apology for his remarks, even as the controversy continues to escalate.
By Ghafla