Ruku Fires Back at Gachagua as Mt Kenya Politics Heat Up
CS Denies Grandmother Visit Claims
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has hit back at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of spreading false claims during the heated Mbeere North by-election campaigns. The CS dismissed reports that Gachagua visited his grandmother’s home during a door-to-door tour, calling the claims “lies meant to mislead voters.”
Ruku addressed the crowd at Muminji on Tuesday, November 18, and spoke with visible frustration. He said he found the claims insensitive, especially because both his parents and grandmother died many years ago. He added that people in his home area know this, so the story made no sense.
“Riggy G, stop lying to Kenyans,” he said. “You cannot claim you visited my grandmother when I never even saw her myself.”
Viral Photos Spark Rumours
His remarks came a day after Gachagua toured villages in Mbeere North on November 17, where photos of him sharing breakfast with residents went viral. Rumours then spread that one of the homes belonged to Ruku’s grandmother.
The by-election, set for November 27, has pulled top political players into the area. As a result, campaigns have turned intense, with UDA backing Leonard Wamuthende while the Democratic Party pushes Newton Karish. Ruku is supporting Wamuthende, who seeks to replace him after he joined the Cabinet.
Political Tensions Rise
Meanwhile, Gachagua is leading the opposite camp alongside DP leaders. He has vowed to remain in the constituency until voting day. The two sides now trade messages daily as they attempt to win over undecided voters.
Ruku also criticised Citizen TV for reporting the claims, urging the media to avoid, in his words, “false narratives that harm communities.” He told residents that Mbeere North needs respect, development, and jobs. He insisted the people will choose a leader who understands their daily struggles.
