Irungu Kang’ata Biography: Education, Family, Controversies

Rigathi Gachagua, a prominent figure in Kenyan politics, has etched his name in the annals of the nation’s leadership. Born in Nyeri County, Gachagua’s journey from humble beginnings to the role of Deputy President of Kenya is a testament to his dedication and political prowess.

In this comprehensive biography, we delve into the life of Rigathi Gachagua, exploring his early years, educational pursuits, distinguished career, and notable achievements.

We also take a close look at his family life and the controversies that have surrounded his political career, particularly allegations of corruption.

Early Life

MP Rigathi Gachagua was born in 1965 in Hiriga village, Mathira, Nyeri County. He is the eighth child of Nahashon Gachagua Reriani and Martha Kirigo. His parents were Mau Mau freedom fighters, with his father being known for building and servicing guns for Kenyan fighters.

Education

Gachagua’s educational journey began at Kabiruini Primary School, where he attended from 1971 to 1977. He then proceeded to Kianyaga High School for his O-levels and A-levels. In 1985, he joined the University of Nairobi (UoN), where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science and Literature in 1988. Gachagua also underwent Paramilitary training at the Administration Police Institute in 1990 and studied an Advanced Public Administration Course at the Kenya School of Government between 1999 and 2000. During his time at the University of Nairobi, he was a prominent student leader, serving as the Nyeri District University Students Association (Ndusa) leader and the chairman of The Association of Literature Students.

Family Life

Rigathi Gachagua is married to Dorcas Wanjiku Rigathi, a pastor based in Mathira. They have been married since 1989 and have two sons, Gachagua Rigathi and Ikinu Rigathi. The family resides in a multimillion-dollar mansion in Sagana, Nyeri County, and they are devout Christians who worship at the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA). Gachagua is also the brother of the late Nderitu Gachagua, the former governor of Nyeri.

Career

Following his graduation, Gachagua worked at the Ministry of Home Affairs & National Heritage in Kenya before enrolling in the Administration Police Institute in 1990. After completing his training at the Police facility, he was posted to the Office of the then President Daniel Arap Moi as a District Officer Cadet from 1991 to 1992. Subsequently, Gachagua served as a District Officer in various districts, including Kakamega, Ng’arua, and Laikipia.

Between 1999 and 2000, he furthered his education at the Kenya School of Government, earning a Diploma in Advanced Public Administration. From 2001 to 2006, Gachagua worked as the Personal Assistant to Uhuru Kenyatta, who later became the President of Kenya. Following this, he remained in the background, focusing on his businesses from 2007 to 2017.

Political Career

In 2017, Rigathi Gachagua was elected as a Kenyan Member of Parliament for Mathira constituency on a Jubilee ticket. During the election, he faced competition from Phyllis Wambura Maranga, who later claimed that she had been rigged out of the Jubilee Party primaries.

In the 2022 Kenyan General Election, Gachagua was the running mate for the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) presidential candidate, Hon. William Ruto, under the Kenya Kwanza political coalition. The coalition secured victory in the election, with Gachagua becoming the Deputy President of Kenya.

Achievements

Gachagua’s achievements are rooted in his career as a public servant and politician, where he has held roles as a District Officer, served as the Personal Assistant to President Uhuru Kenyatta, and successfully contested and won the position of Member of Parliament for Mathira constituency.

Controversies

Rigathi Gachagua has faced controversy in his political career, particularly concerning allegations of corruption. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) filed a petition to freeze some of his bank accounts. He was ordered by the court to refund Ksh. 202 million (US$1.7 million) after being accused of embezzling government funds. These controversies have generated public attention and legal proceedings.