Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah has disclosed that former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua reached out to him through an intermediary months after his impeachment, seeking assistance to reconnect with President William Ruto.
Speaking during an interview on Obinna Show Live on Thursday, April 23, 2026, the National Assembly Majority Leader said that despite their political fallout, he had a direct conversation with Gachagua following the outreach.
Ichung’wah explained that the approach came in early 2025 when a mutual acquaintance contacted him, indicating that the former deputy president wished to speak with him. The communication was later facilitated through a phone call, during which Gachagua reportedly sought help in reaching the Head of State.
“I have spoken to Riggy G. Even after impeachment, there was a time he had a problem; he reached out through a friend,” Ichung’wah said.
According to the legislator, Gachagua’s request was tied to his ongoing impeachment case, which remains before the courts. He noted that the former deputy president appeared keen on exploring possible avenues to have the matter addressed at the highest level.
However, Ichung’wah maintained that such an intervention was neither appropriate nor possible, stressing that the case is a legal process involving Parliament and the Judiciary. He emphasised that the President cannot directly influence such proceedings due to the constitutional principle of separation of powers.
“And he wanted to send somebody to the president. The friend came; we agreed. I spoke with Gachagua. The thing he wanted—I told him that I can’t go to the president; that is a no,” he stated.
The Majority Leader added that while he declined to facilitate the request, he used the opportunity to advise Gachagua to remain composed and allow due process to take its course. He urged him to avoid bitterness and focus on addressing the matter through the proper legal channels.
Ichung’wah further described himself as a pragmatic leader capable of engaging across political divides, noting that personal differences should not entirely shut down communication where necessary.
The revelation comes against the backdrop of a long-standing political feud between the two leaders, which intensified during Gachagua’s impeachment in October 2024. Since then, both have publicly criticised each other, reflecting deep divisions within their political circles.
Their rivalry has continued to play out in public forums, including a recent encounter in Ol Kalou during the burial of former area MP David Kiaraho, where tensions reportedly remained evident. Gachagua has on several occasions criticised Ichung’wah, even calling on the President to rein in the Majority Leader over his remarks.
Ichung’wah’s latest remarks offer a glimpse into behind-the-scenes political manoeuvres and attempts at engagement despite ongoing disputes. They also highlight the complex interplay between legal processes and political relationships in Kenya’s governance landscape.
As the court proceedings surrounding the impeachment continue, the issue is expected to remain a key talking point in the country’s political discourse, with potential implications for alliances and leadership dynamics ahead of future elections.
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