Vijana si watchmen wako! Ruto scolds Gachagua

President William Ruto has openly criticised his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, over remarks urging young people to escort and protect him during public events.

Ruto questioned why the Gachagua would ask youth to carry weapons to defend him, suggesting such statements were irresponsible and reduced young Kenyans to bodyguards.

“Nimesikia mwingine juzi anawaambia vijana ati nyinyi nikienda mahali mchukue rungu na panga mkuje mniprotect,” Ruto said.

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“Unaambia Kenyans wakuje wakulinde kwani ni watchmen wako?”

The President who was speaking in Samburu went on to suggest that leaders should focus on building opportunities for the youth rather than mobilising them for political theatrics.

“Yaani sasa unafanya vijana wa Kenya wakuwe watchmen wako wakati unajivinjari,” he added.

Although Ruto did not mention Gachagua by name, the comments were widely interpreted as a direct response to remarks made by the Deputy President last week during a stop in Nyandarua.

Gachagua had urged youth supporters to accompany him “for protection”, comments that drew immediate criticism from civil society groups who argued such rhetoric risked provoking political tension.

Speaking Monday during an interview, Gachagua claimed his life after the government withdrew his security. He argued that the decision to withdraw his security detail was unjustified and dangerous, arguing that his influence and public standing still warrant state protection.

“I want to tell the people of Kenya that Rigathi Gachagua is not safe. The government withdrew security from him despite his senior status in the country,” Gachagua claimed.

He maintained that although he is no longer in office, his role in public life and the support he commands across the country make him a high-profile figure who should not be left without protection.

The President was in the county to preside over the NYOTA project business start-up capital disbursement. A total of Sh103.9 million was disbursed to youth in Samburu, Marsabit, Laikipia and Isiolo counties during the event.

The funds are meant to support youth-led businesses. Today’s disbursement will benefit 4,159 young entrepreneurs drawn from the 4 counties, each receiving Sh 25,000 to start or grow their businesses. Sh22,000 of the grant will be deposited directly into Pochi La Biashara wallet, while Sh3,000 will be saved under the Haba Na Haba savings account with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF).