A powerful political figure has issued a fierce warning to President William Ruto’s allies, declaring that attacks on former President Uhuru Kenyatta will no longer be tolerated.
The statement has reignited tensions within Kenya’s political circles, raising questions about growing divisions in the ruling coalition.
During a thanksgiving service in Nyeri on Sunday, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua launched a defence of Uhuru.
He accused Ruto’s inner circle of orchestrating a campaign of disrespect against the former president.
In a bold speech, he called out key figures, including State House operative Farouk Kibet and National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, for allegedly insulting Kenyatta.
“You have sent your aides like Farouk and this other one, Ichung’wah, to insult our son, the Fourth President, they should stop,” Gachagua warned.
He challenged Ruto to confront Uhuru directly instead of using proxies, saying, “If you are a real man, don’t send people, insult him yourself.”
“William Ruto, you know me, you know me. If you use these young men to insult Uhuru Kenyatta, these same youths will remove you,” he declared.
The former deputy president went further, pledging to personally shield Uhuru from political attacks.
“From today, I will be Uhuru’s chief protector,” he said, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.
His remarks suggest a deepening rift between Gachagua and Ruto with Gachagua openly defying the president’s allies.
Other leaders at the event supported Gachagua’s stance.
Kathiani MP Robert Mbui urged restraint, while Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru warned Ruto’s allies to stop insulting Uhuru and respect his legacy.
Starehe MP Amos Mwago took to social media, posting: “I, Amos Mwago Maina, MP for Starehe Constituency, will protect Uhuru Kenyatta with the power given to me by the people and through the constitution.”
His statement adds to the growing chorus of leaders rallying behind the former president.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, speaking in Garissa, accused Uhuru of trying to incite youth unrest.
“He should not tarnish his legacy by provoking chaos,” Duale said.
The tension stems from Uhuru’s recent remarks at a wedding in Baringo, where he appeared to mock Ruto’s government for being afraid of youth protests.
“When young people talk, they panic,” Uhuru said, comparing the current leadership to the late President Daniel Moi’s era.
Ruto’s supporters quickly dismissed Uhuru’s comments as hypocritical.
Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa reminded the public that Uhuru once appointed 91 year old Moody Awori to lead the Sports Fund, questioning his commitment to youth empowerment.
Tension continues to rise as Uhuru’s allies vow to shield him from attacks.
By Kenyans