Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi has downplayed any animosity between him and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, stating that their relationship has always been one of political acquaintanceship rather than personal friendship.
Speaking on his past interactions with Gachagua, Muturi clarified that their engagements were primarily in Cabinet Committees, which the former DP chaired during his tenure. Additionally, the two leaders campaigned together under the Kenya Kwanza umbrella during the 2022 General Election.
“The former Deputy President would chair Cabinet Committees, and I only met him in those meetings. He was in Kenya Kwanza; we campaigned together. He is not my enemy. He is just there. Political friends, just like the others,” Muturi stated.
His remarks come just hours after his party formally announced its intention to exit the ruling Kenya Kwanza Alliance, a move that has fueled speculation about his next political steps. While Muturi acknowledged being aware of his party’s decision, he did not disclose its future direction.
Political analysts have linked his recent criticisms of the government to a possible departure from President William Ruto’s administration. Others suggest that Muturi could be aligning himself with Gachagua, who has positioned himself as the political leader of the Mt Kenya region.
However, Muturi dismissed speculation about his resignation, terming it an act of cowardice. He maintained that he would continue advocating for an end to abductions and extrajudicial killings from within the government.
Meanwhile, Gachagua, who has been vocal in his criticism of President Ruto, is working to establish a new political alliance ahead of the 2027 elections. He has been in talks with opposition figures such as Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka, DAP-Kenya’s Eugene Wamalwa, and Martha Karua of the People’s Liberation Party.
The former Mathira MP has already announced plans to launch a new political outfit in May, signaling his intent to challenge Ruto’s re-election bid.
