Impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made startling claims about his earlier opposition to the controversial Adani Group deal, alleging that he warned President William Ruto against welcoming the Indian conglomerate to Kenya.
Speaking on Sunday during a church service at AIPCA Kangari in Kigumo, Murang’a, Gachagua revealed that he had expressed his concerns about the deal, which he described as “shady” and unpopular with Kenyans.
“I told President Ruto the Adani deal was shady and the people did not want it,” he claimed.
Gachagua, who had a strained relationship with the president during his tenure as deputy, asserted that he was the only one who had the courage to correct Ruto when necessary, even claiming that he had been accused of disrespecting the president for opposing certain government projects.
His comments came just days after President Ruto ordered the cancellation of the Adani Group’s planned takeover of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) deal.
In a State of the Nation address on November 21, Ruto cited new evidence from local investigations and partner countries linking the Adani Group to corruption as the reason for his decision.
Ruto’s directive to cancel these deals signaled a commitment to transparency and accountability, promising to cancel the procurement processes for the JKIA expansion and other key infrastructure projects if corruption was found.
Gachagua also hinted at a major political move, promising a significant announcement in January 2025.
“I am having discussions with our religious leaders, businessmen, professionals, and leaders who care about our people.
In January, I will reveal what we have been talking about,” he said, teasing the public about his upcoming plans.
His statement has sparked speculation about a possible new political alliance.
His remarks come on the heels of recent talks with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, who confirmed that discussions are ongoing to form a “strong coalition.”
Kalonzo and his ally, Eugene Wamalwa of DAP-Kenya, have signaled a potential break from the Azimio la Umoja coalition, hinting at a new political formation with Gachagua at the helm.
The new coalition could be launched as early as next year, with Makueni MP Daniel Maanzo, a close confidant of Kalonzo, revealing that they are working to have the alliance in place by Christmas.
The new coalition is expected to feature prominent political figures from across the country, with a particular focus on the Mt. Kenya region.
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