Ruto Likens Gachagua to King Herod over Attacks on Young Leaders

KISII — President William Ruto has hit out at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, comparing him to the biblical King Herod and accusing him of frustrating rising politicians to stifle a new generation of leadership.

Speaking on Tuesday during the third day of his development tour in Kisii County, President Ruto urged the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader to cease fighting emerging figures. He pledged to protect younger politicians and challenged long-serving leaders to prepare to step down alongside him in 2032.

“Those who have served in government and politics for long should be ready to retire with me in 2032 and pave the way for young leaders to take over,” Ruto declared, intensifying a bitter generational feud with Gachagua following the latter’s impeachment in October 2024.

Framing the 2027 General Election as a contest between performance and political rhetoric, the Head of State defended his administration’s record, insisting development projects are distributed equitably.

He urged critics to showcase alternative policy blueprints rather than relying on insults or ethnic mobilization. Ruto also dismissed emerging opposition alliances, labeling them non-national arrangements whose internal candidate discussions should remain private matters.

Kisii Governor Simba Arati joined the President in condemning Gachagua, accusing him of divisive tribal politics. Arati cited Gachagua’s past remarks about relocating to a Texas farm if political fortunes turned against him, warning voters against leaders with fleeting national commitment.

Local lawmakers Silvanus Osoro (South Mugirango) and Japheth Nyakundi (Kitutu Chache North) reaffirmed the region’s backing for Ruto’s re-election, arguing the Gusii community had witnessed accelerated transformation since Gachagua’s exit.

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