Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua appeared to have either moved on or at least decided not to let politics interfere with his peace of mind on Friday as his successor Prof Kithure Kindiki took oath of office in Nairobi.
Mr Gachagua, who is still fighting his impeachment in court, chose to spend time in the company of his family, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Just the other day, he was a heartbeat away from the presidency, but today, life had changed so significantly that the country’s attention had shifted elsewhere.
He posted a family portrait with the simple caption: “Home, sweet home”.
There, he is seen basking in the warmth of his two sons —Keith and Kevin— and wife, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi.
“Thanking God for the gift of my family. The smell of fresh grass, sounds of chirping birds is what a happy family needs. 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! 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 posted on his Facebook page.
In Nairobi, before a cheerful multitude, President William Ruto, Chief Justice Martha Koome, and his wife Dr Joyce Kithure beside him, Prof Kindiki was replacing Mr Gachagua to become the third Deputy President under the Constitution 2010 — and 13th overall.
Exactly two years ago, in the wake of his August 15 victory, Mr Gachagua had posted a somewhat similar photo where he was standing between his sons. Except, the circumstances were different in that image.
In Friday's picture, he and his family sat together on a lawn, dressed casually.
This new realisation underscored that family is all that truly matters, highlighting the fleeting nature of power.
For two years, he moved through corridors lined with aides, wrapped in an aura of power few could match. Now, the two photos hint at the contrast —a life of command and a quiet return to the sidelines.
But, as all those trappings evaporated, his spouse, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, found comfort in God.
“Today, my family and I choose to give a prayer of thanksgiving, understanding that God remains sovereign, whether He saves us from fire or not, Daniel 3:16-18. We give thanks to God for His awesome faithfulness. We call Him, Ebenezer, for this far we celebrate Him. We have seen His mercy and experienced His goodness. Glory and honour be to His Holy name,” Pastor Rigathi posted.
Back in Karen and the Mathira residence, things shifted quickly; the former readying for its new occupant, the latter settling back into the rhythm of its familiar owner.
At the DP’s official residence in Karen, a quiet buzz filled the air with workers moving up and down, tidying the grounds, and readying the compound. Lawn was mowed, hedges pruned, pots rearranged —everything, set to welcome the new occupant. An elite security team guarded the entrance, with only a few visitors allowed in.
During his ouster when he was hospitalised at Karen Hospital, Mr Rigathi's discharge revealed a stark contrast to his former position. He was surrounded only by family and a handful of loyal supporters, highlighting the transient nature of power.
Yet, even as it appears to slip his grip, Mr Gachagua still looks up to the court in hope to overturn his fate.
His political life is on the line. While Mr Gachagua still has a chance to fight the impeachment, all the way to the Supreme Court, things will never be the same as far as his relationship with President Ruto and the ruling Kenya Kwanza Alliance is concerned.
