London, United Kingdom — May 21, 2026, 1:05 PM: Rigathi Gachagua has alleged that President William Ruto once told him he intended to become wealthier than the influential Kenyatta and Moi families.
Speaking during his political tour in the United Kingdom, Gachagua claimed the President made the remarks when the two leaders were still politically aligned and working closely together.
The comments mark the latest escalation in the growing political fallout between Ruto and his former deputy, a rivalry that continues to shape Kenya’s opposition politics ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Gachagua Alleges Ruto Pursued Wealth Through Power
According to Gachagua, President Ruto allegedly told him he wanted to surpass the wealth accumulated by the families of Kenya’s founding President Jomo Kenyatta and former President Daniel arap Moi.
“The president came to look for wealth and in the process he has destroyed the country,” Gachagua claimed during an interview with Kenya Newsline.
“He told me that in five years he wants to be richer than the family of Kenyatta and Moi combined,” he alleged.
The Kenyatta and Moi families are widely regarded as among Kenya’s wealthiest and most politically influential families due to decades of business interests and political dominance spanning multiple generations.
Claims of Wealth Accumulation and Economic Damage
Gachagua further alleged that President Ruto had already achieved his goal within four years, but at the cost of weakening the country’s economy and exhausting public resources.
“Today, it is true that he is richer than both families but in the process, he has destroyed everything,” he claimed.
The DCP leader did not provide evidence to support the allegations.
The Presidency had not publicly responded to the claims by the time of publication.
“Leadership Is a Calling, Not a Ladder to Wealth”
The former Deputy President also criticised political leaders whom he accused of pursuing public office primarily for personal enrichment.
“Leadership is a calling and not a ladder to wealth. It is not a formula for richness, it is about service,” Gachagua said.
“That is why you find many leaders who came to Parliament to look for wealth will not be re-elected,” he added.
Opposition Coalition Intensifies Criticism of Ruto
Gachagua is currently among leading figures within the emerging opposition alliance seeking to challenge President Ruto in the 2027 General Election.
Other opposition leaders who have recently criticised the government include:
- Kalonzo Musyoka
- Fred Matiang’i
- Martha Karua
The leaders have repeatedly accused the Kenya Kwanza administration of economic mismanagement, corruption, and poor governance.
Gachagua Says Rebuilding Kenya Will Be Difficult
Gachagua argued that the next administration would face a difficult task restoring the country’s economy and institutions.
“Even as we are looking for leadership we will have a difficult time because we will have to start from scratch to restore Kenya,” he stated.
