Ngunjiri blasts Gachagua’s advisers for poor strategy on his return

Former Bahati MP Kimani Ngunjiri has taken a swipe at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s advisers, accusing them of failing to properly guide him upon his return to the country from the United States. According to Ngunjiri, Gachagua’s remarks offered nothing new to Kenyans since he had already spoken at length while abroad.

“Gachagua’s advisers should have told him that when he was in America, he talked too much. So, there was nothing new people were waiting to hear,” Ngunjiri said in a TV interview on Friday, August 22, 2025.

His comments appear to question both the strategy and the effectiveness of Gachagu’s communication team, whom he blames for allowing him to repeat himself without delivering fresh insights.

Ngunjiri went further, suggesting that Gachagua’s absence from the political scene had brought a sense of calm across the nation.

“When he was not there, the country was very cool,” he remarked, implying that Gachagau’s return had reignited political tension.

The former legislator’s statements reflect growing scrutiny around Gachagua’s political positioning and his frequent public remarks, which have often triggered sharp debates. While in the United States, he addressed various forums, commenting on governance, diaspora issues, and Kenya’s political climate. Ngunjiri, however, dismissed those speeches as excessive and redundant, claiming they diminished the impact of his return.

By questioning his advisers, Ngunjiri placed responsibility not only on Gachagua himself but also on those surrounding him. He argued that a well-prepared team should have guided Gachagua to deliver a stronger and more refreshing message upon his arrival back home.

Political pressure

The comments come at a time when Gachagua has been at the centre of political realignments and heated exchanges within the Kenya Kwanza administration. Analysts suggest that criticism from figures such as Ngunjiri could signal deeper rifts within the ruling coalition, especially as leaders position themselves for influence ahead of future elections.

Ngunjiri’s blunt remarks are likely to fuel ongoing debates about Gachagua’s leadership style and his handling of both domestic and international engagements. While Gachagua remains a key figure in President William Ruto’s government, calls for him to recalibrate his messaging are growing louder.