Use of Political Power as Leverage while serving as Deputy President, Gachagua’s proximity to state power was used to intimidate businessmen. The claim is that some entrepreneurs were made to feel their businesses could face regulatory trouble, stalled approvals, or state hostility unless they “cooperated.” The power of office itself became the pressure point.
So-Called “Protection Fee” Demands According to accusations by political leaders and insiders, certain Mt Kenya businessmen were allegedly asked to part with money under the guise of political goodwill or protection. Those who complied reportedly enjoyed peace and access, while those who resisted allegedly faced harassment or public attacks.
Forced Business Partnerships One recurring allegation is that businessmen were pressured to enter joint ventures with individuals linked to Gachagua, including family members. These partnerships, critics say, were not based on mutual business logic but on political coercion—“partner or suffer consequences.”
Influence in Importation and Supply Deals Gachagua has been accused by critics of seeking stakes in lucrative import businesses, including commodities like sugar. The allegation is that he attempted to leverage influence over policy, licenses, or access to favor businesses he was linked to, while sidelining those who refused to cooperate.
Targeting Non-Compliant Businessmen Critics claim that businessmen who declined these alleged demands often became targets of smear campaigns, political insults, or exclusion from government-linked opportunities. This created a climate of fear where silence and compliance were safer than resistance.
Carrying the Same Tactics into Party Politics Recently similar pressure tactics have shifted from government into party politics. There are claims that businessmen and political aspirants within his DCP party are being pushed to finance party activities or leadership ambitions in ways that feel compulsory rather than voluntary.
