Gachagua Defends Uhuru Amid Threats by Ruto Allies to Withdraw Benefits

Gachagua Defends Uhuru Amid Threats by Ruto Allies to Withdraw Benefits

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly defended former President Uhuru Kenyatta amid escalating political tensions and threats by a section of Kenya Kwanza leaders to withdraw his retirement benefits.

The dispute has intensified in recent days following remarks by leaders allied to President William Ruto, who accused Kenyatta of engaging in divisive politics and undermining the current administration despite his retirement from office.

Lawmakers from regions including Nandi, Uasin Gishu, and Busia have openly criticised the former Head of State, with some threatening to initiate a parliamentary process to strip him of benefits accorded under the Presidential Retirement Benefits Act. These benefits include a state-funded office, security, and a pension pegged at a percentage of the sitting president’s salary.

Speaking on the matter, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei stated, “He gets 80 per cent of the President’s salary. The government provides his security and offices. Yet he insults the government… when we return to Parliament, we strip his benefits.” The remarks have further fuelled debate over the limits of political engagement by retired leaders.

In response, Gachagua dismissed the calls as unjustified and warned against what he termed as attempts to intimidate the former president. He argued, “Uhuru Kenyatta is our leader. Just because he is retired doesn’t mean his mind is retired. He still has an opinion.” He maintained that Kenyatta retains full constitutional rights, including freedom of expression and political association.

The former deputy president also cautioned against any move to revoke Kenyatta’s benefits, suggesting such action would be temporary and politically motivated. He added, “Don’t intimidate the retired president… even if you did, it would just be for a short time. Once we come in next year, we will restore the benefits with arrears and pay him with interest.”

Gachagua’s sentiments were echoed by Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, who emphasised the need to uphold constitutional freedoms. Nyutu stated, “Uhuru Kenyatta must have freedom like any other Kenyan. And we are ready to protect him.“

The controversy stems from Kenyatta’s recent remarks on the state of the nation and the political direction ahead of the 2027 General Election, comments that have drawn sharp reactions from government allies. Critics argue that his continued engagement in political discourse contradicts the expectations of a retired head of state.

However, Kenyatta has defended his position, insisting that retirement from office does not equate to silence in national matters. He explained, “Honestly, I have the right to defend my party. I am not seeking any position, but I am a member of Jubilee in every way.”

Drawing comparisons with global practices, he added,__ “If you go to America, people like Barack Obama still defend their parties, so why should I be told not to speak?” His remarks underscore a broader argument about the role of former leaders in democratic societies.

The unfolding political exchanges highlight deepening divisions within Kenya’s political landscape, particularly as early alignments for the 2027 elections begin to take shape. Gachagua himself reaffirmed his commitment to opposition unity while signalling his presidential ambitions.

He stated, “Rigathi Gachagua cannot be the dividing factor… even if another is chosen to challenge, I will support them.” The statement positions him within a broader coalition effort aimed at unseating the current administration.

Analysts note that the debate over Kenyatta’s role reflects wider tensions about political freedoms, the interpretation of retirement benefits, and the boundaries of public engagement by former state officials.

As calls to review Kenyatta’s benefits gain traction among some leaders, legal experts suggest any such move would require careful constitutional consideration and could face significant political and judicial scrutiny.

For now, the issue continues to stir national debate, raising fundamental questions about democracy, leadership, and the rights of former presidents in Kenya’s evolving political landscape.

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Gachagua Defends Uhuru Amid Threats by Ruto Allies to Withdraw Benefits