Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced his intention to visit President William Ruto’s stronghold in the Rift Valley.
During an interview with Emoo FM on Friday, February 20, 2026, the leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) shared his plans to hold meet-the-people rallies in Mulot, Bomet town, Longisa, and Sotik as he travels to Kisii for the upcoming United Opposition rallies in Kisii and Nyamira counties. He will then commence a three-day tour of the Kisii region in Ekerenyo.
“I will travel to Kisii to engage with the people, stopping in Mulot, Longisa, and Sotik before continuing to Ekerenyo,” Gachagua stated.
Gachagua expressed a longstanding desire to visit the Kalenjin region but admitted he had hesitated due to concerns for his safety. He noted that elders and bishops from the Mt. Kenya region have encouraged him to connect with the Kalenjin community to assess whether his issues lie solely with the president or with the broader community.
Regarding the situation in the Rift Valley, Gachagua pointed out that despite the president’s roots in the area and his leadership of the government, the Kalenjin community has largely been overlooked, with no one advocating for their interests. He stressed that, given their overwhelming support for him in the 2022 elections as Ruto’s deputy, he feels a strong obligation to represent them and serve as their voice.
“The Kalenjin people lack a champion; their MPs and senators remain silent. Who will stand up for them?” he questioned.
He further asserted that many leaders in the Rift Valley appear more committed to praising the government than to defending their community’s interests. Gachagua highlighted that while delegations from other regions frequently visit State House and receive financial assistance, no delegation from the Kalenjin community has been observed receiving similar support.
“With the elders and bishops expressing concern for the Kalenjin community, it is essential to address their challenges,” he added.
Gachagua’s tour of the Rift Valley is set for Monday, February 23, 2026, as he makes his way to Kisii for the United Opposition rallies.
