Fresh details have emerged explaining why Irungu Kang’ata has recently found himself on a collision course with Rigathi Gachagua, following a dramatic political outburst in Murang’a that has exposed deeper tensions within the DCP political network.
During a public address in Murang’a County, Gachagua openly criticized Kang’ata and warned that he would back an alternative candidate, Wairagu wa Mai, if the governor failed to align with his political outfit. At face value, the remarks appeared to be a push for political loyalty. However, insiders now claim the fallout is rooted in a financial dispute that has been simmering behind the scenes.
Sources indicate that Gachagua had initially promised Kang’ata a direct party ticket for the gubernatorial race on condition that he financially supports party activities. The alleged arrangement included an upfront contribution of Kshs 5 million, followed by monthly payments of Kshs 1 million to sustain political operations. It is claimed that Kang’ata paid the initial Kshs 5 million—reportedly influencing the exit of Jamleck Kamau from the race—but failed to maintain the subsequent monthly contributions.
The situation reportedly escalated over the weekend when Cleophas Malala is said to have reached out to Kang’ata requesting an additional Kshs 5 million to facilitate political events in Murang’a. Kang’ata’s reluctance to release further funds is believed to have triggered the public fallout.
Insiders further reveal that Gachagua’s political machinery has recently been strained by dwindling finances. Organizing a single event is said to cost up to Kshs 3 million, covering transport, logistics, security, mobilization of at least 1,000 supporters, and church contributions. Aspirants across the region have reportedly been contributing up to Kshs 1 million monthly, leading to fatigue and reduced participation.
As a result, Gachagua has scaled down his engagements to one major event per weekend, often pooling resources from multiple aspirants. Kang’ata’s refusal to continue funding has therefore compounded existing financial challenges, placing him firmly in Gachagua’s bad books and exposing cracks within the region’s political alignment.
