Rigathi Gachagua Biography: Age, Wife, Children, Net Worth, Tribe, Education, News, Twitter

Geoffrey Rigathi Gachagua is a Kenyan politician who served as the Deputy President of Kenya from 2022 until his impeachment in October 2024.

Before becoming Deputy President, he represented the Mathira Constituency in Parliament from 2017 to 2022. Gachagua was selected as William Ruto’s running mate in the 2022 elections, and they secured victory with over 50% of the vote.

His tenure as Deputy President ended following impeachment on charges including corruption and ethnic discrimination, which he has described as politically motivated.

Profile

• Full Name: Geoffrey Rigathi Gachagua
• Stage Name: Rigathi Gachagua
• Born: February 28, 1965
• Age: 59 years old
• Birthplace: Ruguru, Kenya
• Nationality: Kenyan
• Occupation: Kenyan politician who served as the Deputy President of Kenya
• Height: Unknown
• Parent: Gachagua Reriani ,Martha Kirigo
• Siblings: Nderitu Gachagua
• Spouse: Pastor Dorcas Wanjiku Rigathi
• Children: Kevin Gachagua ,Keith Gachagua
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: Ksh 800 million (around $6 million)

Early Life And Education

Geoffrey Rigathi Gachagua was born on February 28, 1965, in Hiriga, Nyeri District, Kenya.

He is the son of Gachagua Reriani and Martha Kirigo, who were involved in the Mau Mau movement during the fight for Kenya’s independence.

His father played a significant role in the struggle by servicing guns for the Mau Mau. At the same time, his mother served as a courier, transporting food and ammunition to the fighters in the Mount Kenya forest. He is also the younger brother of Nderitu Gachagua, the first governor of Nyeri County.

Gachagua’s early education began at Kabiruini Primary School, where he studied from 1971 to 1977. He then proceeded to Kianyaga High School, where he completed his O-levels and A-levels.

1985, he enrolled at the University of Nairobi, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Literature, graduating in 1988. While at the university, Gachagua was actively involved in student leadership.

He served as the leader of the Nyeri District University Students Association (NDUSA) and as chairman of the Association of Literature Students, demonstrating his early leadership potential.

Gachagua is of Kikuyu ethnicity, one of Kenya’s largest ethnic groups, and while his religious beliefs are not widely known.

Career

Rigathi Gachagua’s public administration career began during Daniel arap Moi’s presidency, where he served as a District Officer (DO).

His work in the civil service saw him take on several roles, including as an Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs.

These early positions helped him gain valuable experience in government operations, which proved crucial as he began to build his political career.

His time as a personal assistant to key political figures, including Uhuru Kenyatta, also allowed him to establish connections with Kenya’s political elite, laying the foundation for his future ambitions.

2017, Gachagua entered competitive politics by contesting and winning the Mathira Constituency seat in Parliament.

His late brother, Nderitu Gachagua, had previously held this seat. His tenure as an MP was marked by his fiery and sometimes confrontational approach, especially on issues affecting the Mount Kenya region.

Gachagua was known for holding authority figures accountable and consistently advocating for the needs and interests of his constituents, which helped him build a reputation as a strong and assertive politician.

In the 2022 general elections, Gachagua’s political trajectory significantly changed when William Ruto chose him as his running mate.

This partnership proved successful, as the duo won the presidency with over 50% of the vote. Gachagua’s selection was seen as a strategic move to solidify Ruto’s support base in the Mount Kenya region, a critical factor in their victory.

As Deputy President, Gachagua played an active role in the administration, representing the interests of ordinary Kenyans and advocating for grassroots issues.

However, Gachagua’s time as Deputy President was marred by controversy. Allegations of corruption and ethnic discrimination surrounded his administration, and tensions reportedly arose between him and President Ruto.

These tensions were said to have escalated, eventually leading to a breakdown in their working relationship. As Deputy President, Gachagua found himself at the centre of several contentious political issues, and his conduct became increasingly scrutinized, especially as his influence within the government was questioned.

On October 8, 2024, Gachagua was impeached by the National Assembly on 11 separate charges, including corruption and abuse of office.

Despite filing legal challenges against the impeachment, the High Court rejected his petitions. On October 17, 2024, the Senate upheld five of the 11 charges, confirming his impeachment.

Gachagua’s removal from office was initially set to proceed, with Kithure Kindiki nominated as his replacement.

However, the High Court issued a conservatory order on October 18, temporarily halting the removal process.

Ultimately, on October 31, 2024, the High Court declined to extend the conservatory order, clearing the way for Kindiki’s swearing-in as the new Deputy President.

Social Media

• Instagram handle: @r.i.g.a.t.h.i_g.a.c.h.a.g.u.a_
• Facebook handle: Rigathi Gachagua
• Twitter handle: @rigathi

Personal Life

Rigathi Gachagua is married to Pastor Dorcas Wanjiku Rigathi, whom he met in the 1980s at a function hosted by former President Daniel Moi. Their relationship began during a difficult time for Dorcas, who was contemplating suicide.

They have been together for over 35 years and have two adult sons, Kevin and Keith. Dorcas is actively involved in ministry and supports Gachagua’s political career, highlighting their strong partnership.

Net Worth

Rigathi Gachagua’s net worth has been reported at varying figures.

He claimed a net worth of Ksh 800 million (around $6 million), attributing this wealth to his business activities during the economic boom under former President Mwai Kibaki.

He has emphasized that his financial standing is well-documented through his business dealings during that period.