Gospel musician and Subukia parliamentary aspirant Ngaruiya Junior has publicly severed ties with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of exploiting loyal allies for personal political gain and pushing divisive agendas in Mount Kenya politics.
In a strongly-worded press statement, Ngaruiya said internal strategies and personal attacks from Gachagua’s camp no longer align with his vision for development-centered politics. His remarks follow Gachagua’s dismissal of Ngaruiya’s political ambitions based on his educational background—an accusation the artist says reflects a troubling culture of elitism and disrespect.
“It is disheartening for a leader of such stature to engage in personal remarks against someone attempting to chart a new path in public service,” Ngaruiya stated.
Gachagua Defends Denial of DCP Ticket to Ngaruiya
While addressing congregants at a church service at AIPCA Kihoya in Murang’a County on Sunday, May 25, 2025, Gachagua openly mocked Ngaruiya Junior, saying he had every reason to deny him a Democratic for Citizens Party (DCP) ticket.
Gachagua criticized Ngaruiya for confronting him in front of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, and unflinchingly admitted that he had indeed rejected Ngaruiya’s political bid due to what he described as inadequate qualifications.
“I was genuinely amused to see an artiste run to Mr. Yes Sir and accuse me of refusing to offer him the DCP ticket. Yes, it is true,” Gachagua told the congregation.
He emphasized that both personal and political considerations informed his decision, highlighting Ngaruiya’s limited formal education as the primary reason for the rejection.
Gachagua said the DCP aims to shield itself from incompetent candidates, and insisted that the party only wants leaders who reflect professionalism and credibility.
“So now, someone who only reached Standard Two is expected to be handed a DCP ticket? Who exactly is he meant to represent as a Member of Parliament? I cannot permit that to happen, especially considering the difficult situation we are in, where people are elected without proper scrutiny. No individual lacking direction will be handed a DCP ticket” he asked.
Ngaruiya described the comments as unnecessary and dismissive, especially coming from a political figure he once supported during his most turbulent period—including after his impeachment.
“I stood with him during and after his impeachment, only to later realise that there were broader intentions that did not align with what we were told,” he added.
Ngaruiya Cites Betrayal and Divisive Politics
Ngaruiya claimed he had helped mobilize grassroots support for Gachagua, believing in a shared vision. However, he now believes that many leaders, including himself, were used to further the former deputy president’s personal goals.
According to Ngaruiya, several other leaders are experiencing similar disillusionment. He said many who once rallied behind Gachagua are now quietly distancing themselves, frustrated by what they see as a manipulative and exclusionary approach to regional leadership.
He pointed to the example of former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu, alleging that Gachagua failed to support Waititu during his legal challenges, despite their past political alliance.
“Despite many of us working tirelessly to promote and defend him, especially in the Mt Kenya region, there has been a shift in how leadership and relationships are now being managed,” Ngaruiya observed.
He also accused Gachagua of ignoring established Mt Kenya-based political parties in favor of pursuing singular control over the region’s political direction. Ngaruiya referenced a closed-door meeting during preparations for the Democratic Congress Party (DCP) unveiling, where he claimed there were plans to undermine other regional parties to centralize influence.
Drawing from his former proximity to Gachagua’s inner circle, Ngaruiya said he witnessed firsthand the shaping of these strategies. His departure from the political bloc comes as he carves his own path ahead of the 2027 elections.
Ngaruiya Slams Gachagua Over Artist Remarks
In addition to political concerns, Ngaruiya criticized Gachagua for what he sees as unfair targeting of artists. He cited remarks made during a church event, where Gachagua allegedly said that musicians who perform at certain venues should be banned unless they apologize.
“Music is our profession,” Ngaruiya said. “Not every artist is interested in politics. It is unfair to single us out for criticism based on our engagements.”
He clarified that a recent meeting with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki was simply about having their voices heard—not an act of defiance.
“Meeting the current Deputy President Kindiki was simply a matter of seeking an audience. It should not be framed as betrayal or wrongdoing.”
