Ousted Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has resorted to balancing public appearances with phone calls during events in the Mt Kenya region, following recent attacks by thugs at a funeral in Limuru.
The use of loudspeaker-amplified phone calls, which he has resorted to in the past but has intensified in recent days, not only allows him to speak at as many events as possible but also ensures that he is spared the headache of travel and security logistics for only a few important events.
In his political assault on President William Ruto following their dramatic fallout that led to his impeachment, Mr Gachagua appears to be adopting a dynamic game plan. From turning up unannounced at private homesteads to impromptu appearances at music festivals and responding to distress calls with cash donations, the phone calls are the latest addition to his arsenal.
Gachagua forced to flee chaotic funeral in Limuru, Kiambu
Analysts say Mr Gachagua's overall aim is to remain in the public consciousness as he consolidates support in the vote-rich region ahead of the 2027 elections.
Wherever there is a well-attended function in Mt Kenya, there is an emerging trend of a Gachagua loyalist setting the stage for the former deputy president to address the gathering. Typically, someone makes a phone call and connects it to the public address system for Mr Gachagua to make a speech.
He proclaimed that "there are many ways to skin a cat and if the people remain steadfast in working for our redemption from the effects of bad governance, we will win".
Mr Gachagua was due to make his presence known at a burial ceremony in Kirinyaga County by telephone later on December 4, 2024.
When Baragwi MCA David Mathenge was invited to address the mourners, he surprised those who expected Mr Gachagua to appear in person.
Instead, Mr Mathenge announced that he was donating his time to Mr Gachagua.
"I want to announce to you that Mr Gachagua is here with us and will be addressing you in a moment. Go and tell those who think they can get away with violence that we will corner them," said Mr Mathenge.
Mr Gachagua said he was also happy that Mt Kenya residents were at the forefront of the fight against bad governance and state capture.
The former deputy president has also appeared from afar at caravans organised by social media influencers that have attracted large crowds.
In such cases, an organiser calls on the deputy president to address the crowd.
The Limuru attack came after Mr Gachagua's private secretary, Mumbi wa Munene, told Nation.Africa on October 25, 2024, that the state had completely withdrawn the former DP's security.
Although the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Mr Mohamed Amin, had exclusively told Nation.Africa that the perpetrators of the attack would be hunted down, arrested and charged, over a week later there appears to be little progress in the investigation, apart from the summoning of politicians allied to Mr Gachagua.
While Mr Ichung'wah reiterated that "those who promote violence, intolerance and bad politics will be defeated", Mr Gachagua has not heeded the condemnation.
Now, Mr Gachagua and his loyalists are seen adopting strategies aimed at allowing him to interact with his supporters, even as it becomes clear that the state is working hard to contain him.Nation.Africa that "we want all our development partners and all democracies to take note that there is a leader in Kenya who is being persecuted for opposing corruption, one-man rule, abductions, disappearances, extrajudicial killings... and for opposing inhumane treatment of traders and tenants".
He added: "It was a big mistake for Mr Gachagua's protagonists to imagine that he would be impeached, go home and become irrelevant."
Former Gatanga MP Nduati Ngugi says the former deputy president has become a thorn in the government's side as he consolidates Mt Kenya voters.
"It is now certain that Mr Gachagua doesn't want President Ruto to get a second term," he says.
"The field is bound to become more competitive as 2027 approaches. The monkey business of political engagement is bound to escalate. It is up to Mr Gachagua to find a way to maintain the fanatical following he has amassed in Mt Kenya and extend it to other regions," said Mr Ngugi.
According to Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo, the former DP has made new friends who will soon defend his freedom to participate in political discourse.Nation.Africa that Mr Gachagua will soon launch his plan to reach out to other regions.
"You think Mr Gachagua is a politician from the mountain region but you will soon see him with others in all regions," he said.
