Former Laikipia Woman Representative Cate Waruguru has revealed details about the close relationship between Farouk Kibet and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Speaking on Milele FM on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, Waruguru said Kibet played a major role in Gachagua’s rise to power.
She explained that before William Ruto became president, Kibet was heavily involved in political strategies that helped shape the leadership structure of the Kenya Kwanza government.
According to Waruguru, Kibet was among those who pushed for Gachagua to be chosen as Ruto’s running mate. Other key figures in this group included President Ruto, Ndindi Nyoro, Didmus Barasa, and Oscar Sudi.
Waruguru’s statement has reignited debate about Kibet’s influence in government, especially after a recent incident in Mandera. On February 4, 2025, Kibet was seen controlling who could speak during Ruto’s visit to the region.
A viral video showed him seemingly stopping Mandera Governor Adan Khalif from addressing the gathering, raising concerns about his power within government circles.
This has fueled speculation about the extent of his authority and whether he is now working against certain leaders who were once his allies.The claim that Kibet played a central role in Gachagua’s selection as Deputy President adds a new dimension to the ongoing discussions about political realignments.
When Ruto picked Gachagua as his running mate in 2022, there were reports of intense lobbying behind the scenes, with different factions within Kenya Kwanza pushing for their preferred candidates.
Gachagua’s selection was met with mixed reactions, but his deep political connections and financial muscle were seen as key factors.
Waruguru’s revelation suggests that Kibet was instrumental in this decision, which could explain why he and Gachagua were once seen as close political allies.
However, recent events indicate that their relationship may have changed. With Gachagua now out of office, some political observers believe Kibet may have shifted loyalties.
His actions in Mandera have been interpreted by some as a sign that he is now aligning himself more closely with other power players within Ruto’s administration. There have been murmurs within political circles that Kibet’s role goes beyond being just a political fixer.
His ability to influence decisions and control events at the highest levels of government raises questions about who really holds power in Kenya Kwanza.
Waruguru’s remarks have sparked fresh interest in Kibet’s role in government, with some leaders questioning whether he is acting on behalf of the president or advancing his own political interests.
Whether he remains a key player or faces resistance from other factions within government will be something to watch in the coming months.
