Gachagua protests being kicked out of State House WhatsApp group

By Peter Ochieng

Deputy President (DP) Rigathi Gachagua on Friday gave a hint that all may not be well, as far as his relationship with President William Ruto is concerned.

While being interviewed by Citizen TV's Sam Gituku, Gachagua said he has not been able to attend some of the functions presided over by his boss, because he is literally in the dark.

He said about a week ago, he was removed  from a State House WhatsApp group, which is basically a forum used to share information about the President's diary.

The group, Gachagua said, contains several handlers of the President, including the Head of Public Service Felix Koskei and his deputy, Eliud Owalo.

Pressed on who removed him from the group, Gachagua said, "President's private Secretary, Mr. Maiyo."

He said that he suspects he was removed from the group so that he misses Ruto's events, in order for him to be accused of absconding duty.

"There are some petty and mischievous people around the President."

The second in command added that he is not sure whether Ruto sanctioned his removal.

However, if he is not returned, the DP said he will assume the President may be aware of his tribulations, but chose to keep quiet. 

As an indication that his relationship with Ruto may have broken down, Gachagua reminded the President the humiliation he experienced as Deputy President, during retired President Uhuru Kenyatta's time in office.

He said when he settled on him as his running mate, Ruto assured his family that he would never allow anyone to abuse or humiliate him upon assuming office.

However, things seem to have changed and Gachagua is now going through what Ruto went through under Uhuru's administration.

"My family is devastated," Gachagua said.

He urged Ruto to reign in on MPs and Cabinet Secretaries who are now making a career out of abusing him. 

"At least Ruto was allowed to work for five years. Allow me to work for even 3 years. I am willing to work with dedication. Let the insults stop," he added.

"Please keep your promise to the people of Kenya. Don't allow the criminal justice system to harass and intimidate your deputy."