Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has disclosed that he held confidential late-night discussions with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua prior to Gachagua’s impeachment. During these meetings, Kindiki urged Gachagua to maintain loyalty to President William Ruto.
Speaking at the Mt Kenya East Elders Solemn Assembly in Nembure, Embu County on August 15, 2026, Kindiki revealed that the talks occurred while he served as Interior Cabinet Secretary. He stated that he repeatedly advised Gachagua to stay aligned with President Ruto to safeguard his political future.
Attempts to Prevent Impeachment
Kindiki claimed that despite his counsel, Gachagua dismissed his advice, which contributed to his eventual removal from office. “Your overconfidence is what removed you from office, and I had told you,” Kindiki said, warning that he might expose the details of how he tried to assist Gachagua.
Strained Relations and Political Rift
The revelations come amid escalating tensions between the two leaders. Gachagua recently insisted that Kindiki stop addressing him as 'brother,' signaling a breakdown in their relationship. Kindiki responded by asserting that the term is used based on communal ties rather than personal choice, emphasizing their shared heritage across Kikuyu, Meru, Embu, and Mbeere communities.
Kindiki also criticized Gachagua for arrogance and disrespect towards other leaders. This public fallout reflects the growing political competition in the Mt Kenya region ahead of the 2027 General Election, with Kindiki and other allies backing President Ruto, while Gachagua pursues an alternative political path.
Kindiki’s statements suggest that the discord between them predates Gachagua’s impeachment and that his efforts to avert the crisis were unsuccessful.
