May 30, 2022 - Rigathi Gachagua's nomination as Deputy President William Ruto's running mate in the August 9 General Election has sparked a revisit of his past, particularly his time as a District Officer in Limuru during the 1990s.
As a student leader at the University of Nairobi, Gachagua caught the attention of the late former President Daniel Arap Moi, who tasked him with identifying student groups rising against his administration.
After completing his bachelor's degree, Gachagua was immediately roped into the civil service, serving as a District Officer in various parts of the country, including Kakamega, Molo in Nakuru County, and Limuru.
Limuru residents have come forward to share their harrowing experiences under Gachagua's leadership, describing a period marked by police brutality and human rights abuses.
One resident recalled being treated as a suspect, with police conducting round-the-clock patrols and youths being taken to Tigoni police station and beaten.
Another resident shared the story of his brother being beaten by Gachagua's officers and left for dead, succumbing to his injuries days later.
Supporters of Ruto and Gachagua have dismissed the confessions, claiming that the victims have been paid to lie.
However, Gachagua has admitted to being a DO in Limuru and acknowledged that atrocities occurred, but defended himself by saying he was just following orders from above.
