Rigathi Hits Out at Karua as Kindiki Quits Active Politics

UDA deputy presidential candidate Rigathi Gachagua has dismissed the choice of Narc Kenya leader Martha Karua as Raila Odinga’s running mate.

Addressing Rongai residents on Monday, Rigathi declared Karua will not be able to deliver the Mt Kenya votes to Raila.

The Mathira member of Parliament said the Mt Kenya area has already resolved to support Ruto.

According to the legislator, President Uhuru Kenyatta’s failure to persuade the Mt Kenya voters to endorse Raila is an indication that the electorate has already decided on who to rally behind.

Read: Rigathi Gachagua It is! Ruto Picks Running Mate

“Our president who we love tried to take us to Raila and we refused. Raila has now taken a woman from Kirinyaga to take you to his camp. Will that be possible?” he posed.

“This woman who has now been sent by him when she comes here, will you tell her that you already made up your mind? Will you tell her, that if Uhuru who is the sitting president failed to take us there, will she?”

The Mathira MP, who was picked as Deputy President William Ruto’s running mate on Sunday has established himself as the Mt Kenya region’s political kingpin.

In the battle to be Ruto’s deputy, his abrasive personality and ability to mobilize the populace helped him defeat Tharaka Nithi senator Kithure Kindiki.

Read Also: Raila Names Martha Karua as Running Mate

Raila, on the other hand, chose Karua as his running mate on Monday hours before the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) deadline.

Meanwhile, Kindiki who was allegedly the most popular candidate, has quit active politics.

Speaking on Monday, the legislator said he will support Dr Ruto and will continue being a member of UDA and the Kenya Kwanza Alliance.

The lawmaker told reporters that he will not be available for an appointive position after the August 9 polls and will instead relax as he reflects on his future and prepare for a comeback.

Read Also: Kindiki, Gachagua Leave Ruto’s Karen Residence After Hours of Deliberations

“I have taken a decision to take a break from elective politics. I will take the break to reorganise myself as I support my party to deliver the presidency,” he said.

“I will not be seeking any appointive position whatsoever. However, I will be available to seek any position in future that may be available at the national level.”

Kindiki, on the other hand, asked his supporters to vote for Dr Ruto and Rigathi.

“It was not about me as a person, it was about us as a team.”