UDA Secretary General Fires Back at Deputy President Gachagua: "You Are Not a Co-President"

In a sharp escalation of internal party tensions, UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar has openly criticized Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of overstepping his authority. Omar's remarks, delivered during a press briefing, emphasized that Gachagua should not view himself as a co-president alongside William Ruto.

Omar highlighted the circumstances surrounding Gachagua's selection as Deputy President, revealing it was a last-minute decision primarily to secure votes from the Mount Kenya region. He firmly reminded Gachagua, "You were selected, not elected, as Deputy President. The mountain region's support for William Ruto was the key factor, and your role is to assist him—not to act as a co-president."

UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar

Omar's warning to Gachagua was clear: any attempts to undermine the presidency could erode respect for the office of the Deputy President. He further challenged Gachagua, suggesting that if he is dissatisfied with his current role, he should prepare for a contest in the 2027 elections.

This public rebuke marks a significant moment of discord within the UDA party, potentially setting the stage for future conflicts leading up to the next election.