Ruto fires back at Gachagua over Akorino State House invite

A collage of President William Ruto at State House with DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua in Kajiado on April 12, 2026/SCREENGRAB

President William Ruto has hit back at criticism from his former deputy Rigathi Gachagua as he defended his decision to host members of the Akorino Church at State House on Sunday.

Speaking on Sunday during the Akorino Israel Thanksgiving Service at State House, Ruto asserted his authority over the official residence. He said he would not be dictated to on who to invite.

The President emphasised that State House remains open to all Kenyans. He maintained that criticism would not stop him from engaging different groups.

“You are speaking about food? The food is not yours, the one cooking is not your wife, the one inviting is not you, and where people are seated is not your home. Why are you asking questions about State House? I’m the boss here,” Ruto said.

“You are all welcome to State House and if they continue complaining, I will still welcome them and see what they will do,” he added.

In a pointed jab, Ruto ridiculed suggestions that those attending such events are driven by personal gain. He termed the claims as “stomach politics.”

“You did not even get enough food; I would have slaughtered more. The person asking about food has a big stomach. I walk with my stomach. When I get served tea, I take it as we go on. Speaking about stomach issues is nonsense,” he said.

Earlier, Gachagua had accused the President of using the Akorino faithful for political gain. He alleged they had been invited to State House to “pray for him and sanitise him.”

“For the Akorino going to the State House, please speak for your stomachs, not us. You join the long list of traitors who have turned against their own to fill their stomachs,” Gachagua said.

The exchange comes amid a series of State House meetings hosted by the President. These have included leaders, religious figures, and musicians.

Last week, Ruto and Gachagua also clashed publicly at a funeral in Ol Kalou. The memorial service for Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho turned into a political battleground.

The service, conducted by the Presbyterian Church of East Africa, featured veiled attacks as both leaders appealed to the Mt. Kenya region.

Ruto used the occasion to praise Kiaraho as a development-focused leader. He contrasted this with what he termed as “noise, fights and insults” in politics.

“I knew him when he was elected MP and can bear witness that he was focused, forthright, and committed. Every time he invited me here, it was about development for the people,” Ruto said.

“It reminds us today that Kenyans recognise work, not noise, fights, insults and drama,” he added.