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Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has revealed new details about the intense discussions that led to Rigathi Gachagua being selected as William Ruto’s running mate in the 2022 presidential election.
Nyoro said Gachagua won the position despite receiving only five votes during a meeting where leaders from the Mount Kenya region gathered to decide who should deputise Ruto.
According to Nyoro, about 30 to 40 leaders met in Karen for discussions that lasted more than 30 hours. When the leaders eventually voted, Kithure Kindiki received 28 votes, while Gachagua managed to secure only five.
Despite the huge difference in the vote count, Gachagua was eventually chosen as Ruto’s running mate.
Nyoro said the decision was not based on the vote alone because the leaders also had to consider the wider political situation and the consequences of leaving Gachagua out of the ticket.
The Kiharu MP revealed that he was personally involved in Gachagua’s campaign during the selection process and was one of the people supporting his bid.
Nyoro also recalled that he and Gachagua had worked closely with Ruto during their time in opposition and had faced political pressure under the previous administration.
He said this shared political experience played a role in the discussions surrounding the running mate position.
The selection eventually saw Ruto pick Gachagua, who was then the Mathira MP, as his deputy for the 2022 election.
The decision was considered important because Ruto needed strong support in the Mount Kenya region after his political fallout with former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Nyoro’s account provides a glimpse into the difficult negotiations behind the 2022 Kenya Kwanza ticket and explains how Gachagua emerged as the final choice despite receiving far fewer votes during the initial selection.
The revelation comes as Nyoro and Gachagua now occupy different political positions ahead of the 2027 General Election.