Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Sunday stepped up his criticism of the government, telling supporters in Matasia, Kajiado County, that a “decision has been made” to chart a new political path.
Mr Gachagua said he had held discussions with residents and resolved to move with them “in one direction to liberate our nation.”
“We camped here this evening and spoke with the people. Listening to them, a decision has been made,” he said.
He claimed his supporters were facing intimidation and persecution, urging them to remain firm.
“We thank you most sincerely for remaining strong despite intimidation and state persecution of our people. I urge courage and strength moving into the future,” he said.
The remarks come against the backdrop of his fallout with President William Ruto, a relationship that once defined the country’s political leadership.
Mr Gachagua was Mr Ruto’s running mate in the 2022 General Election, with the two campaigning on a united ticket under the Kenya Kwanza coalition and winning on a platform that championed the “hustler” narrative.
However, cracks emerged within government ranks, eventually leading to a public and political split that saw Mr Gachagua pushed out of the administration and retreat to build his own political base.
Since then, he has accused the state of targeting his allies, while positioning himself as an alternative voice within the ruling political space.
His tour of Kajiado is part of a wider push to expand his influence beyond his traditional support base in the Mt Kenya region, as political realignments begin to take shape ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Mr Gachagua did not outline specific plans but maintained that his movement was gaining momentum across the country.
