Embattled former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has spoken for the first time since the inauguration of Kithure Kindiki, who has taken his place as the third Deputy President of Kenya, in a ceremony that capped a remarkable rise to power at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi, today.
Taking to his social media pages, the country’s former second-in-command, who was impeached by Parliament, shared a heartfelt message of gratitude for his family, saying that he is happy and enjoying life after politics with his wife, Pastor Dr Dorcas Rigathi and their two sons, Keith Ikinu and Kevin Gachagua, at their rural home in Nyeri.
“Home Sweet Home! Thanking God for the gift of my family. The smell of fresh grass and the sounds of chirping birds is what a happy family needs,” Gachagua wrote on Facebook. “I will remain forever grateful to God for giving me a loving and supportive family. We are happy to be home, where I was born and brought up!”
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Gachagua, removed from office in October on charges of constitutional violations and inciting ethnic divisions, added that he looks forward to reconnecting with nature and embracing the simplicity of rural life.
“I can’t wait for the morning to take my walk in Hombe Forest, enjoy the beautiful scenery of Mt Kenya, as I thank God for His kindness,” he shared.
His remarks came just hours after Kithure Kindiki was sworn in as the new Deputy President, following a series of legal challenges that unsuccessfully sought to prevent his firing and replacement as the country’s DP.
The swearing-in ceremony of Kindiki at KICC was attended by President William Ruto and a host of political and diplomatic dignitaries.
Addressing the delegation, the Head of State expressed confidence in the newly appointed second-in-command, particularly in his ability to undertake the functions of his new office.
“I am honoured to witness Prof Kindiki‘s swearing-in as the third Deputy President of Kenya since the promulgation of the new Constitution. In all the roles Prof Kindiki has served, he has demonstrated excellence, high competence, and dedication,” Ruto commended him.
“Over the past two decades, I have had the privilege of observing Prof Kindiki’s work as a professor, litigation lawyer, consulting attorney, senator representing Tharaka-Nithi, Majority Leader of the Senate, and, most recently, Cabinet Secretary.
“In all these roles, he has demonstrated exceptional dedication, competence, and professionalism, consistently delivering results that exceed expectations,” the President added.
“You are eloquent, my brother, and you are intelligent. I am confident that you will accomplish what I have missed in the last two years. We need your voice, and the voice of those of us in the executive, to ensure we achieve what we set out in our Constitution.”
In his inaugural speech, Deputy President Kindiki pledged his commitment to helping President Ruto fulfil the promises made to Kenyans under the Kenya Kwanza administration.
“I promise you, before this congregation and before God, that I will not let you down for the privilege you have given me,” Kindiki affirmed amidst cheers from the audience.
He also thanked President Ruto for his support and for the longstanding mentorship and friendship they share.
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