Behind the Scenes: Ruto’s Alleged Push to Keep Pastor Dorcas Gachagua Out of the Spotlight

In a rare public admission, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has revealed deep-seated tensions he experienced within President William Ruto’s administration, particularly concerning how his wife, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, was treated during official events. 

Speaking at a church service in Kirinyaga County on Sunday, June 15, Gachagua accused State House officials of imposing discriminatory protocol restrictions that barred his wife from accompanying him to public functions. He alleged the protocol was selectively enforced whenever the First Lady, Mama Rachel Ruto, was not present. 

“These people persecuted me and my wife when I was in office,” Gachagua told the congregation. “Because the president did not want me to be with my wife when he was not with his, due to protocol.” 

According to Gachagua, his wife was repeatedly asked to leave official functions despite receiving invitations. One notable instance, he recalled, took place during a high-profile event launching Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission top job. When Mama Rachel Ruto was a no-show, organizers allegedly insisted that Pastor Dorcas exit the event as well. 

“I said no. Why did they call her then? I told them to tell the President that my wife is not leaving. If Mama Ida leaves, my wife will leave. And I told him if she goes, I will also go.” 

Eventually, Pastor Dorcas remained, and even led a prayer for Raila Odinga. 

Gachagua’s remarks came as a direct response to Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, a key ally of President Ruto, who had recently criticized Gachagua’s frequent public appearances with his wife, suggesting they were politically motivated. The former Deputy President, however, rejected the claims. 

“This is personal. I walk with my wife by choice. Not everything is about politics,” Gachagua said firmly, drawing applause from congregants. 

His passionate defense of family values appears to be part of a broader rebranding effort following his absence from the political limelight in recent months. By portraying himself as a man committed to both faith and family, Gachagua seems intent on reclaiming political relevance while appealing to Kenya’s conservative base. 

In the same address, he also dismissed attempts by Kenya Kwanza leaders to woo Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka into the fold, hinting at fractures within the ruling coalition and a leadership approach he views as increasingly dismissive and authoritarian. 

As political temperatures continue to rise ahead of future electoral contests, Gachagua’s candid revelations offer a glimpse into the inner workings, and personal tensions, within Kenya’s corridors of power.