Mt Kenya politics flare as Gachagua takes on Ichung’wah at David Kiaraho’s funeral service

Mt Kenya politics flare as Gachagua takes on Ichung’wah at David Kiaraho’s funeral service

Mt Kenya politics flare as Gachagua takes on Ichung’wah at David Kiaraho’s funeral service

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Former DP Rigathi Gachagua used a Nyandarua requiem mass to accuse Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah of betraying the Mt Kenya community, while urging President Ruto and mourners to maintain peace

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly criticised National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and the Kikuyu Constituency MP, accusing him of misleading President William Ruto and betraying the Mt Kenya community.
Speaking on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, during a requiem mass for the late David Kiaraho in Nyandarua County, Gachagua recounted what he described as acts of betrayal by Ichung’wah and his allies, saying they insulted the community while claiming to represent it.
“Those people the President would have trouble with are people like Ichungwah if they came here. They are traitors to our community. They insulted us, saying we are tribal and that they are Kikuyu. I warned those young people before we even had a misunderstanding. I told them if you walk with them, they will dig a hole for you. Those like Ichungwah… I advised, I warned, the people of the mountain do not forgive betrayal. I told you that betrayal is not forgiven among our people. You chose to listen to Kimani Ichungwah. Now this community has rejected you, and I had told you. Ichungwah said Riggy G will be forgotten after two weeks. How many years now? We loved you, we respected you, and we elected you. Even if we have issues, we will resolve them when you are in front during elections. But while you are in office, continue working. Try whatever you can; we will deal with other matters later,” Gachagua said.

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The former deputy president was allowed to address mourners in the presence of President William Ruto after initial uncertainty over whether he would be permitted to speak.
“Mr President, I have seen the newspapers saying there will be a confrontation here. But there will be no confrontation. This is a solemn occasion. We want it to be respectful because everyone here has good intentions. My people and I have come in peace. Let us give Kiaraho his respect,” he said.
During the address, Gachagua adopted a conciliatory tone, addressing issues affecting the wider Mt Kenya region while emphasising peace and unity.

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