Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has launched a fierce attack on President William Ruto, accusing him of protecting alleged drug barons within his Cabinet and shielding individuals implicated in the controversial Minnesota fraud scheme linked to Kenya.
Speaking on Sunday during a church service at AIPCA Kiratina in Kiambu County, the former Deputy President claimed that President Ruto’s tough public stance on narcotics was contradicted by his inner circle, daring him to begin any anti-drug crackdown from within his own government.
“Nimeona jana ukisema mambo ya wale wanauza cocaine na heroin ati utadeal nao. Kwanza futa wale mawaziri uko nao wawili wanajulikana kwa kuuza madawa. Futa hao drug barons uko nao kwa Cabinet ndio tuamini uko genuine,” Gachagua said.
He further accused the President of sabotaging initiatives he had previously overseen, insisting that decisive action against alleged Cabinet-linked drug traffickers would be the true test of Ruto’s sincerity.
Explosive Claims Over Minnesota Fraud Scheme
Gachagua also reignited debate over the Minnesota fraud scandal, alleging that individuals linked to the scheme are business associates of President Ruto and continue to enjoy state protection.
“Mambo ya Minnesota, pesa iliibiwa. Watu waliohusika ni business partners wa Rais. Mwenye mall iko Eastleigh ndiye mwenye hiyo scheme,” he claimed.
In remarks bound to spark diplomatic controversy, Gachagua called on US President Donald Trump to intervene directly, urging him to bypass Kenya’s extradition processes and conduct an operation similar to one he claimed took place in Venezuela, leading to the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro.
“We are asking you Trump, don’t bother about the extradition process in Kenya. Fanya vile ulifanya Venezuela, because Ruto amesema jamaa asitolewe huku,” he said.
Claims of Ongoing Government Favoritism
The DCP leader further alleged that individuals linked to the Minnesota scandal are still benefiting from lucrative government contracts, to the detriment of local farmers.
He cited Mwea rice farmers, claiming one of the suspects had been awarded a contract to import duty-free rice, undermining local production.
“Huyo jamaa ndiye bado anahangaisha wakulima wa Mwea sababu amepewa kandarasi ya kuleta duty free rice,” Gachagua said, before adding that President Ruto should also be held accountable if implicated.
Gachagua’s remarks are likely to heighten political tensions, adding to growing pressure on the government over corruption, drug trafficking allegations, and accountability within the Cabinet.
