Ruto castigates Gachagua for calling on youth to protect him in rallies
By Aloys Michael, January 13, 2026President William Ruto has taken a swipe at his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, dismissing calls for youths to protect him during public appearances as reckless and misguided.
Addressing a gathering in Samburu on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, Ruto questioned why any leader would urge young people to arm themselves in his defence, warning that such remarks demean the youth by turning them into personal bodyguards instead of nation-builders.
“Nimesikia mwingine juzi anawaambia vijana ati nyinyi nikienda mahali mchukue rungu na panga mkuje mniprotect,” Ruto quipped.
“Unaambia Kenyans wakuje wakulinde kwani ni watchmen wako?”
Ruto and Gachagua have been bickering with each other since the former DP was ousted from the Kenya Kwanza government.
The Head of State 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,” Ruto said.
The Democracy for Citizens (DCP) chief 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.
He claimed that his personal security was withdrawn by the government, warning that his safety is now at risk despite what he describes as his continued senior status in national politics.
Speaking during an interview with K24 TV on Monday, January 12, 2026, Gachagua claimed 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,” Gachagua said.
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.
Ruto-Gachagua tiff
“Despite the fact that he was removed from office, he commands a serious following; millions of Kenyans are behind him, hence he is a senior leader who deserves protection because of his seniority in public service and his key role in determining the next presidential election,” he said.
The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader framed the withdrawal as part of a broader political campaign against him, accusing President Ruto of turning hostile following their dramatic fallout and his growing influence in the Mt Kenya region.
“William Ruto has declared war on Rigathi Gachagua because he has lost the mountain, and he is very bitter,” he said.
He maintained that the move is a calculated effort to undermine his political standing.
According to him, the strategy is designed to weaken his influence ahead of future elections.
Gachagua insisted the plan revolves around dividing the Mt Kenya bloc, claiming that it seeks to split the region into Mt Kenya East and West to dilute its voting power.
The DCP boss said his push for unity in the region has made him a target, adding that restoring his security is vital given his status and continued role in national politics.