Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto of deliberately undermining Deputy President Kithure Kindiki in an effort to compel him to step down.

In a televised interview on Sunday, July 26, 2026, Gachagua likened Kindiki's current predicament to the treatment he endured before his removal from office. He stated, “This young man from Tharaka is hurting; I understand what he is going through because I went through the same. I was tough and no one dared insult me. Even Junet’s remarks are directed by Ruto. It is Ruto who is tormenting Kindiki, telling them to push Kindiki to resign out of frustration.”

Gachagua also noted that Kindiki occupies his former position but is not fully exercising the role, emphasizing that he himself has no interest in reclaiming the seat.

He further alleged that opposition against Ruto stems from dissatisfaction with his leadership style rather than the choice of his deputy. “We oppose Ruto because of his conduct, including his treatment of the younger generation, and accusations of corruption and deceit. The opposition is not because of Kindiki,” Gachagua said.

Addressing Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, Gachagua warned against placing excessive trust in President Ruto, citing examples of former allies who have fallen out with him after close collaboration.

This development follows comments by National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed suggesting that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) may seek the deputy presidency in a coalition with Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ahead of the 2027 elections. Junet proposed Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya as ODM's preferred candidate for the position.

Junet Mohamed Endorses Oparanya for Deputy President

Junet highlighted Oparanya’s extensive service within ODM and his close association with party leader Raila Odinga as key factors in the endorsement.

He stated, “We are working towards forming a government in 2027 with President William Samoei Ruto. If UDA retains the presidency, who gets the deputy presidency? ODM will demand the deputy position.”