Gachagua Snubs Duale’s Debate Offer, Demands Showdown with President Ruto
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has firmly rejected a televised debate challenge issued by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, insisting he will only engage directly with President William Ruto.
The exchange stems from Duale’s public offer during a NYOTA youth empowerment event at Garissa High School on February 11, 2026, where he told the President, “President Ruto, leave him (Gachagua) to me. I will deal with him,” proposing a face-off on Citizen TV’s JKLive to address Gachagua’s recent criticisms of Northern Kenya leadership and alleged regional marginalization.
In response, issued on February 12, 2026, Gachagua dismissed the invitation outright, stating: “I don’t debate nor engage with employees of William Ruto. I am only available for one debate with the Ruto team, the Presidential Debate next year between Mr. William Ruto and I. His employees should help him prepare talking notes early enough.” He referred to Duale and others as subordinates, emphasizing his focus on a high-level confrontation rather than proxy discussions. The dispute is fueled by Gachagua’s accusations that the Kenya Kwanza administration has neglected North Eastern Kenya, particularly on issues like drought and famine, while also targeting local leaders over devolution fund management.
At the same Garissa event, President Ruto himself downplayed the idea of a debate, advising Duale against it with a proverb: “Don’t argue with a fool; people will not know the difference.” He urged focus on national priorities instead of political spats. Gachagua’s refusal keeps the spotlight on his anticipated direct challenge to Ruto in a future presidential-style debate, while reinforcing the ongoing political rift within the ruling coalition and its allies.
