Rigathi Gachagua: Nearly ‘slept in my shoes’ waiting for women’s fundraiser
Deputy President (DP) Rigathi Gachagua has reiterated his support for women in the country, noting that the Kenya Kwanza government is in power because of their support.
According to the Deputy President, the administration led by President William Ruto will always be at the forefront of supporting women’s initiatives across the country.
Speaking at the Lang’ata Women’s Empowerment Programme fundraising event over the weekend, the DP said he had almost slept in his shoes the previous day while waiting for the occasion.
The fundraiser for the women was held at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi County and was organised by Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor, popularly known as Jalang’o.
Mr Gachagua explained that the event was supposed to be graced by President Ruto, but he was instead asked to represent him as the President was on an official visit to Zimbabwe.
“When Jalang’o told the President that it was a women’s issue, the President sent me to represent him. When I heard it was a women’s issue, I almost slept in my shoes waiting for sunrise,” the DP said to loud laughter.
Gachagua was accompanied by a delegation of lawmakers allied to the Kenya Kwanza government and the opposition Azimio la Umoja.
He praised the commitment and efforts of women in the country, noting that Kenya Kwanza is in power largely because of women’s votes.
Dr Ruto and Mr Gachagua have been elected President and Deputy President respectively in the 2022 general elections.
Opposition leader Raila Odinga, who is also the leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, was their main opponent.
Speaking at the Lang’ata Women’s Empowerment Programme fundraiser, Gachagua said elected leaders owe their political positions to women’s support.
“In my leadership, I have put women first. All elected leaders who have complete information, not just a summary, know that if you align yourself with women, everything goes well,” he explained.
He went on to say, “Women do not steal, they are not liars, and if they love you, they do it passionately. If they hate you, they just go away. They put you in their hearts and it is a challenge to get out of there.
The DP is married to Pastor Dorcas Gachagua, who he credits with much of his success.
Mr Gachagua has been recorded on numerous occasions talking about how his wife has had a huge impact on his life, including saving him from a drinking binge.
“My house belongs to a pastor and alcohol is an abomination,” insists DP Gachagua.
He has been at the forefront of the fight against illicit brews and drug abuse.