Rigathi Gachagua Alleges Plot to Rig 2027 Polls Under Ruto Administration

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto's administration of preparing to manipulate the 2027 General Election through a new, undisclosed system.

Speaking from his Wamunyoro residence on August 24, Gachagua claimed that government operatives intend to introduce a mechanism that could rig the upcoming polls. He named Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho and IEBC Vice Chairperson Fahima Arafat Abdallah in connection with these allegations but did not provide evidence.

Allegations of Election Manipulation

Gachagua stated, "There is a system that they want to bring, that will aid in rigging the votes." However, he said he was still awaiting full details before making a comprehensive disclosure, hoping to receive the remaining information prior to traveling to the United States.

This accusation follows earlier claims by Gachagua that the government is orchestrating violence and preparing conditions for a possible two-year postponement of the elections, including the declaration of a state of emergency.

Claims on Security Funding Misappropriation

In addition to election rigging allegations, Gachagua accused President Ruto and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen of diverting over KSh 5 billion intended for covert security operations. According to him, officers from the police, Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and National Intelligence Service (NIS) have expressed concerns about inadequate funding for intelligence gathering.

He added that specialised security units, such as the Special Operations Group (SOG), General Service Unit (GSU), and the presidential security detail, have faced demoralisation due to unpaid allowances for several months.

Gachagua concluded his 56-day consultation process at Wamunyoro and plans to travel to the United States to reflect on his political future.