Kiambaa Member of Parliament John Njuguna Wanjiku, popularly known as Kawanjiku, has hit back at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over remarks dismissing Mt Kenya leaders as “tugeges” — a slur suggesting weak or inferior politicians.
Speaking during a press conference at Parliament Buildings on Monday, Kawanjiku accused Gachagua of running a campaign of intimidation against elected leaders from the region who refuse to align with him politically.
“I’m not going to sit down and wait to be intimidated or coerced in any way to follow him,” Kawanjiku told journalists, claiming that the former Deputy President had repeatedly warned him of consequences for political disloyalty.
Kawanjiku accused Gachagua of demanding absolute loyalty from Mt Kenya leaders and punishing those who make independent political choices.
He cited an incident in 2023 when Gachagua allegedly reprimanded him for hosting Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro in Kiambaa for a fundraiser.
“He made it his business and even chased me from his office in 2023,” he said, noting that senior Mt Kenya politicians witnessed the confrontation.
Challenging Gachagua’s record, the legislator questioned the former Deputy President’s right to lecture others about leadership.
“When you talk about the quality of leadership, what standard have you set for yourself? You never raised any statement, asked any question, or contributed to any Bill in Parliament,” Kawanjiku charged.
He defended his election, saying Kiambaa voters made a conscious decision based on trust in his leadership.
“The people of Kiambaa elected me knowingly — not because we are handsome, but to deliver,” he said, urging Gachagua to respect the will of voters.
The second-term MP reiterated his loyalty to President William Ruto and his development agenda, dismissing threats that he could be denied re-election.
“My destiny is not in your hands. If you feel you have a better candidate, bring them. The people will decide,” he declared.
“You are not the giver of life. I will follow whoever I want because I am a sober leader,” he affirmed.
The former DP had, during a gathering of Mt Kenya lawyers on Saturday night, said the Mt Kenya region elected weak leaders and that was the reason he did not have foot soldiers in parliament.
He noted that he admired the late former Prime Minister because he had top-of-the-range lawyers as legislators and that they are the people who protected him over the years.
He urged Mt Kenya professionals to seek elective seats.
