Former Deputy President and DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua has dismissed claims that the now-popular ‘wantam’ slogan—coined from the phrase ‘one term’—is being championed solely by the Mt Kenya region, saying the sentiment has already spread across various Kenyan communities.

Speaking on Sunday, June 29, 2025, during a church service at the ACK Diocese of Nyahururu, Gachagua took issue with those attempting to pin the one-term campaign message on Mt Kenya region.

He argued that Kenyans from different regions were expressing similar frustrations and openly using the ‘wantam’ term.

“As I finish, let me say this issue of wantam is not ours alone. Just yesterday, I saw Kisii people saying ‘wantam’; I saw people from Taita Taveta saying ‘wantam’,” he said, noting that even leaders from other regions had been vocal in echoing the same political dissatisfaction.

Gachagua went further to reference a Member of Parliament who recently questioned whether the backlash against President William Ruto would exist if he had been born in Central Kenya.

On that note, the former Mathira MP hit out sharply, saying the MP in question was conveniently ignoring the fact that the Mt Kenya region overwhelmingly voted for Ruto in 2022.

He stressed that the region reserves the right to chart its political course, having supported Ruto then, and may now choose to rally behind a different leader of its choosing.

“I saw another MP saying that if Ruto were Kamau or Njoroge, there would be no wantam. Honourable member, it is that Kamau and Njoroge who voted for Ruto. He is the same person. So they will decide what to do and how they will live,” he added.

Church support

Gachagua ended his remarks by appreciating the local congregation and noting the progress made in church development, switching briefly from politics to faith.

He commended the church they had gathered in, saying he was impressed by its modern design, which he noted could easily match churches found in Nairobi or any other high-end city.

To reinforce his support, Gachagua donated Ksh1 million, saying he wanted the church to spearhead the remaining developments, while affirming his commitment to work closely with the parish bishop on future projects.

“So let me say, I am happy this church is well done. I would also want to be part of the history writing for this church. It has been built so well, and I am happy that it resembles a city church. That is good, our Bishop, and that is why I am also backing him with Ksh1 million,” he said.