Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has strongly criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua following his explosive speech at the burial of his maternal aunt, Gladys Gathoni Kahua, on July 5, 2025.

Gachagua, speaking emotionally at the event, accused President William Ruto of orchestrating state-sponsored persecution against the Mt. Kenya community, including himself and his children.

In a strongly worded response on social media, Duale condemned Gachagua’s statements as reckless and inflammatory.

“We know Mr Gachagua is in a self-destruction mode. But he cannot burn the country as he destroys himself,” Duale wrote on X.

“Such reckless statements are dangerous for our country’s peace and stability. This is truly lowering the bar for leadership.”

Gachagua had told mourners that his late aunt had warned him years ago not to trust Ruto, calling him “an evil man.” He admitted to ignoring her advice, claiming that the consequences of that choice are now unfolding.

“My mother here had warned me that William Ruto is an evil man, and if he is elected president, he’ll persecute me, my children, and our community. It has come to pass,” Gachagua said.

Targeted persecution

Gachagua added that while he accepted personal blame, saying he could be persecuted along with his children, the wider community did not deserve the crackdown. His most serious claim was that President Ruto had, in a meeting at State House, instructed police commanders to target people from the Mt. Kenya region.

“Out of the more than 400 people who have been arrested, 92% are people from this region… Trumped-up charges, no evidence, nothing,” he claimed. “Just as my aunt had told me, this community shall face persecution.”

Gachagua also accused National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah of working with Ruto to bring charges against young people from the region.

The remarks have deepened an already growing rift between Gachagua and Ruto. Once close allies following the 2022 general election, the two leaders have since fallen out amid political realignments and accusations of betrayal.

With the 2027 elections approaching, the exchange between Duale and Gachagua is likely to heighten political tensions. Duale’s warning reflects the government’s growing concern that Gachagua’s defiance could stir unrest in a politically sensitive region.