'Conman, Mtu Tapeli': Ruto Tells Gachagua to Stop Tribal Politics

President William Ruto has intensified his criticism of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, branding him a political “conman” and accusing him of promoting tribalism and ethnic divisions as political competition ahead of the 2027 General Election gathers momentum.

Speaking during his ongoing tour of the Gusii region, the President launched a fresh verbal attack on his former deputy, challenging him to abandon what he described as divisive politics and focus on presenting policies that address the needs of Kenyans.

Ruto questioned Gachagua's leadership approach, arguing that political mobilisation should not be built around ethnic identity, hatred or regional divisions.

Ruto Accuses Gachagua of Promoting Tribal Politics

During his address in Bonchari Constituency, Kisii County, the President described Gachagua as a “master of hate” and warned residents against supporting leaders who, in his view, seek to divide Kenyans along ethnic lines.

“Do you want that master of hate from Texas to come and bring us tribalism? To come and bring hatred? To come and bring matters of polarisation?” Ruto asked.

The President also described the former Deputy President as a chronic liar, conman and fraud, escalating the increasingly personal exchanges between the two politicians.

Ruto argued that Kenya's political future should be guided by national unity and development rather than ethnic mobilisation.

Fresh Extortion Allegations Against Former Deputy President

The President's latest remarks follow accusations he made during his tour of Nyamira County on Monday, November 9.

At a roadside rally in Kitutu Masaba, Ruto accused Gachagua of allegedly extorting politicians, businesspeople and aspirants seeking political support through his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).

He claimed that individuals seeking access to the former deputy or hoping to secure party nomination tickets were being pressured to pay money.

Ruto also dismissed Gachagua's claims that he played a decisive role in securing his victory in the 2022 presidential election.

The President maintained that he had personally campaigned across the country and secured his electoral support through his own political efforts.

The allegations made by the President have not, in themselves, established that Gachagua committed any offence.

Political Fallout Between Former Allies Continues

Ruto and Gachagua were political partners in the Kenya Kwanza administration after winning the 2022 General Election. However, their relationship deteriorated amid disagreements over government leadership, political appointments and the interests of the Mt Kenya region.

The fallout culminated in Gachagua's impeachment and removal from office in October 2024.

Since leaving government, Gachagua has become one of Ruto's most vocal political opponents and has positioned himself as a leading voice for the Mt Kenya region through the DCP.

He has repeatedly criticised the administration and argued that the region's political interests and influence must be protected.

The political rivalry has increasingly become a defining feature of preparations for the 2027 General Election.

Ruto Defends His Administration's Development Agenda

While criticising Gachagua, the President defended his government's development record, arguing that public investment should benefit all regions of the country.

He pointed to ongoing infrastructure projects, affordable housing, electricity connectivity, agricultural programmes and industrial development as evidence of his administration's commitment to equitable development.

Ruto urged residents to assess political leaders based on their development plans and ability to deliver services rather than ethnic loyalties.

The President's remarks come amid growing political activity across the country as leaders position themselves ahead of the next General Election.

2027 Political Contest Intensifies

The latest exchange highlights the widening political divide between Ruto and his former deputy, whose once-close partnership has transformed into an increasingly bitter rivalry.

With Gachagua seeking to consolidate his influence in Mt Kenya and build opposition support, Ruto faces the challenge of defending his political standing while presenting his administration's record to voters.

The continuing exchanges also raise broader questions about the role of ethnic identity in Kenya's electoral politics and the responsibility of political leaders to promote national cohesion.

As the 2027 election approaches, the contest between the two leaders is likely to remain a major feature of the country's political landscape.