Gachagua cautions Kenyans against giving their IDs during State House visits
By Kenneth Mwenda, September 28, 2025Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has cautioned Kajiado residents against handing over their national identity cards during planned visits to State House.
Speaking during a church service in Kajiado on Sunday, September 28, 2025, Gachagua claimed that giving out IDs could expose residents to fraud and manipulation. He argued that personal details could be misused, including interference with voter registration records or even tampering with land ownership documents.
“Nyinyi watu wa Kajiado mchanuke. Na msipeane kitambulisho. Kitambulisho inafanyiwa scanning. Utaweza pata jina yako imeondolewa kwa voters register, ama Title Deed yako imebinduliwa. Msipeane kitambulisho,” he told the congregation.
He added that residents should not allow themselves to be lured into giving away their IDs in exchange for promises of money or favours.
Elsewhere, prominent lawyer Willis Otieno alleged that State House has turned into a hub of corruption and backroom deals.
“Unajua kuskiza uwongo ni kitu ambacho kinaumiza maskio ya mtu. Mskize uongo mkiwa na pesa mfukoni,” he said.
Also watch: Farouk Kibet’s remarks on State House visit.
Kindiki’s earlier pledge
Gachagua’s warning comes just days after Deputy President Kithure Kindiki promised to organise a State House visit for Kajiado residents. Addressing women’s SACCOs during an empowerment event in Mashuru on September 20, 2025 Kindiki said he would work with President William Ruto to make the trip possible.
“Na mngependa kutembea Ikulu pia? Tuwaundie programme muende pale Ikulu? Mkae pale na mdosi?” Kindiki asked, assuring residents that he would “connect the wires” with the Head of State.
President Ruto has also defended such visits, saying State House is open to all Kenyans. On September 19, 2025, he told critics that the residence belongs to the people and no one should be condemned for visiting.
“Mko na ruhusa ya kukuja hapa kwa sababu makao haya ni makao ya wananchi wa taifa la Kenya,” Ruto said.
A warning amid political rivalry
Gachagua, however, painted a different picture, urging residents to remain vigilant. His remarks show growing political contestation over the meaning and purpose of State House gatherings.
The former Deputy President also sharpened his criticism of ODM leader Raila Odinga, branding him the “real watermelon” of Kenyan politics for what he described as constant shifts in alliances. He also dismissed Raila’s statement that ODM had not abandoned plans to field a presidential candidate in 2027, arguing instead that Raila would eventually side with President Ruto.