Rigathi Gachagua Makes Millions from TikTok Lions in Viral Livestream, Sparks National Debate

In a surprising twist to his political journey, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is making headlines again, this time not for a government scandal or rally speech, but for cashing in on TikTok. 

Gachagua, once seen as a rigid, no-nonsense leader, has found new fame among Kenyan youth and government critics after his impeachment.  

With growing public frustration directed at President William Ruto’s administration, Gachagua has quickly positioned himself as a vocal opposition figure, launching scathing attacks that are now drawing both attention and cash, literally. 

On Friday, June 27, Gachagua hosted a fiery TikTok livestream where he didn’t hold back. With a sharp tongue and politically charged rhetoric, he tore into the government’s policies, corruption, and what he calls betrayal of the Kenyan people. But what stole the show wasn’t just the speech, it was the reaction. 

Supporters poured in digital gifts during the livestream, the most notable being 78 virtual “Lions,” TikTok’s top-tier gift. 

To put this into perspective, each Lion is worth $400. With the current exchange rate at approximately 129.50 Kenyan shillings per US dollar, each Lion equates to around KSh 51,800. Multiply that by 78, and the total jumps to over KSh 4 million.  

However, since TikTok typically retains a 50% commission, Gachagua likely pocketed close to KSh 2 million from the session. For a politician with no official title, this is a groundbreaking moment, he becomes the first major Kenyan political figure to monetize TikTok on such a scale. 

The event sparked an instant storm on social media. On X (formerly Twitter), many users expressed disbelief and skepticism. Some accused Gachagua of manipulating the system, suggesting he might be gifting himself through fake accounts to build hype. Others went further, calling it a clever scheme to launder money while creating a public spectacle.  

There were also concerns that this might draw the attention of the Kenya Revenue Authority, with speculation that Gachagua could be targeted for tax evasion if the government feels threatened by his growing popularity. 

While Gachagua’s online stunt amazed many, others saw it as a reflection of a deeper trend, Kenyans’ obsession with political drama and their willingness to financially support figures who challenge the status quo.  

Some users praised him for using the platform smartly, while others questioned why ordinary citizens would gift a former deputy president, someone they assume is already wealthy, with their hard-earned money. 

Interestingly, the moment also sparked reactions beyond Kenyan borders. Germany-based TikToker Roseline Ngolo, popularly known as Nyako, weighed in by cautioning content creators and users alike. She warned that TikTok gifts might appear lucrative but don’t equate to real, sustainable wealth. 

According to her, the platform’s reward system often leads creators into a false sense of financial security. Her take, however, was met with mixed reactions. Some agreed with her advice, while others accused her of being bitter due to mismanaging her own earnings. 

Gachagua’s sudden TikTok fame may be amusing to some, but it reveals a shifting dynamic in Kenyan politics. Digital platforms are no longer just tools for visibility, they’re emerging as new avenues for fundraising, influence, and political messaging.  

The lines between politician, content creator, and digital hustler are blurring, ushering in a new era where going live could be as powerful as holding a press conference. 

Whether this marks the beginning of a digital political revolution or just another internet sensation remains to be seen. One thing is clear: Rigathi Gachagua is no longer just a politician, he’s now a TikTok sensation, banking on both outrage and admiration.