Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has defended his abrasive speech at the inauguration ceremony of President William Ruto a fortnight ago.

Gachagua’s speech raised concerns among Kenyans with many claiming that the dress down of the exiting administration in front of visiting dignitaries was unwarranted.

But responding to his critics during a church service at State House Nairobi on Sunday, September 25, the country’s second in command said there was nothing wrong about what he said.

He insisted that all he said was nothing but the truth and urged members of the public to ‘get used to the truth’.

The former Mathira Member of Parliament said he was taught by his parents to always speak the truth.

“I know many people had a problem that I said the truth in front of visitors. But I think to many it is bad upbringing. I was brought up by my parents and told to always speak the truth. I want to invite the people of Kenya wazoee ukweli (get used to the truth),” he said.

Gachagua asks Kenyans to pray for Ruto

Gachagua made the remarks while asking Kenyans to pray for President Ruto, who he said has inherited a country in a ‘difficult situation’.

“It is not easy we are in a difficult situation. Drought is ravaging people across the country. People have no food, hospital bills are an issue. Schools are an issue and all these are on one man. He can’t do it alone. God must come through for him and I ask you to continue to pray for him,” he added.

Gachagua had, in his speech at Kasarani stadium on September 13, accused retired President Uhuru Kenyatta of ruining the country’s economy.

He claimed that Uhuru had weaponised the war on graft to persecute his critics.

“We will fix this economy and create a good working environment where Kenyans are to work and businessmen are not harassed by KRA,” he added.