NAIROBI, Kenya, January 19, 2025 — Former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu has claimed that he was instrumental in transforming Rigathi Gachagua’s public image after the 2022 General Election, including fixing the wardrobe issues that once earned the former Deputy President nationwide ridicule.
Speaking in a video shared on his YouTube channel on Monday, Wambugu said he worked closely with Gachagua shortly after the bruising election campaigns, despite the two having been political rivals at the time.
From Rivals to Allies — Then Fallout Again
Wambugu explained that after the 2022 elections, Gachagua reached out and invited him for a lengthy meeting at his private residence in Karen, Nairobi.
The meeting, he said, marked the beginning of a short-lived political partnership aimed at grooming Gachagua to meet the standards expected of a Deputy President.
“We were bitter enemies during the campaigns, but after the elections, we sat down and agreed to work together,” Wambugu said.
‘Suti Kombo’ to Polished Deputy President
According to Wambugu, one of his key responsibilities was improving Gachagua’s appearance, communication style, and public image.
He said the former DP was frequently mocked for his dressing, a jibe popularised by political rivals during the early days of his tenure.
“There was this suti kombo thing. He used to dress badly, talk badly, and lacked polish. My role was to help make him deputy presidential,” Wambugu said.
Speech Coaching and Media Access
Beyond wardrobe changes, Wambugu said he also worked on how Gachagua spoke in public, structured speeches, and engaged the media.
He revealed that securing media interviews for the former DP was initially difficult, with several outlets reluctant to host him for sit-down interviews.
“We fought very hard with media houses to give him space. Slowly, after the polishing, the interviews started coming,” he added.
Perks and Public Payroll
Wambugu disclosed that he was placed on the public payroll at Principal Secretary level, enjoying benefits similar to those of an MP.
These included a Toyota Prado, an armed driver, and state security.
“I worked very hard. I didn’t get anything for free,” Wambugu stated.
Fallout After Gachagua’s Ouster
The revelations come amid an escalating fallout between the two leaders following Gachagua’s removal from office, after which Wambugu has launched sustained criticism of his former boss.
Wambugu is now among several Mt Kenya politicians who have distanced themselves from Gachagua’s DCP camp.
Allies Drift Back to UDA
Recent defections include Juja MP George Koimburi, who quit the DCP party to rejoin the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga has also publicly pledged loyalty to President William Ruto, stating he recognises only one president whom he voted for.
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