Why DP Ruto Picked Gachagua over Kindiki
Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua has disclosed why DP William Ruto picked him over Tharaka Nithi Senator Kithure Kindiki who was the clear favorite to be Kenya Kwanza's presidential running mate.
Gathogo Wanjiru 
Ruto settled on Gachagua even after the Kenya Kwanza selection panel overwhelmingly voted for Kindiki, the accomplished advocate garnered 24 votes from 30 leaders present.
The running mate selection process reportedly created a rift in the Kenya Kwanza Alliance as leaders allied to Kindiki felt cheated following Gachagua's nomination as Ruto's running mate.
However, Kindiki announced he would not seek any elective position in the August 9th general election after Ruto settled on his rival.
In an interview with a local vernacular TV station on Monday, May 23, 2022, Gachagua admitted that his selection by Ruto had divided Mt Kenya leaders.
"I had led these people for four years and we were okay then. We differed when this seat came up for grabs," he said.
The Kenya Kwanza presidential running mate further explained why Ruto picked him over Kindiki even after the Tharaka Nithi Senator floored him in votes cast by Mt Kenya leaders.
"It is a personal decision by the presidential aspirant. He sought someone well known, compatible, who shares the same ideals, with proven value for friendship, that is how I defeated them," he said.
Gachagua also dismissed the notion that he is abrasive, crude, and authoritarian. He said people need not be afraid that he will unleash his traits to limit who gets closer to the President's ear if Ruto wins the presidency.
"Ours will be an open-door-policy presidency where all will access the President. We have no intention to limit access to the seat of power."
He further claimed that Mt Kenya leaders have so far accepted the facts of the matter and are now showing him support.
"They have accepted me as their deputy team leader and the ultimate Mt Kenya team captain," he claimed.
Most political analysts faulted Ruto for picking Gachagua over Kindiki, the Mathira MP has graft cases pending in court which taint his reputation.
Ruto and his running mate face formidable competitors - Raila Odinga and Martha Karua - widely seen as anti-graft crusaders who are keen on ending corruption in the country once they ascend to power.
