Gachagua addresses claims he was extravagant and fond of choppers while in office

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has addressed claims that he was an extravagant, chopper-loving leader during his time in government, defending his record while criticising what he describes as reckless practices by current leaders.

Speaking during an interview with Embu radio stations on Thursday, October 9, 2025, Gachagua recalled visiting Embu in 2022, emphasising that the trip was part of a national economic forum aimed at collecting public input for the development of an economic charter and not a door-to-door campaign to solicit votes.

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“Yes, we came to Embu in 2022, but it was not a door-to-door campaign seeking votes. We were here for an economic forum to gather suggestions from the people, and we draughted the economic charter, which is one of the reasons I have issues with Ruto now; he abandoned that charter,” he shared.

He acknowledged that helicopters were used during the visit, but clarified that it was a one-day affair, and he never engaged in frequent, extravagant travel or personal displays of wealth.

Contrasting his approach with that of Kenya Kwanza leaders, Gachagua criticised the widespread use of helicopters by Ruto’s allies during campaigns, noting that the aircraft fly over farmlands, disrupt crops, and disturb livestock.

He argued that such practices are unnecessary, disruptive, and disconnected from the realities of ordinary citizens.

“It is true that I came with helicopters, but it was only for one day. I never used to travel daily or go from home to home. That was part of a national campaign. But now, Ruto’s allies are going door-to-door in Mbeere, flying helicopters over crops and livestock, causing disruption,” Gachagua added.

Gachagua also condemned the distribution of handouts by the administration, stressing that the money being handed out comes from public funds, not leaders’ personal finances.

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He questioned the logic of giving away millions of shillings daily while essential public services, including hospitals, remain underfunded and inadequately stocked with drugs.

He estimated that daily disbursements by the state exceed Ksh60 million, far beyond the President’s official salary.

“The reason I am criticising Ruto’s government for giving handouts is because the money is public money. If it were leaders giving their own money, that would be acceptable, but this is taxpayer money being used recklessly. Hospitals are still struggling with drug shortages while millions are being distributed, which simply does not add up,” Gachagua said.