In a media press briefing at the Karen residence, Ruto stated that he had considered the political skills and ability to deal with the economic and capacity in making the decision.
He hailed Gachagua as a skilled debater and talented political operative who had risen from junior ranks to become the most suited to become deputy president in a Kenya Kwanza government.
The decision comes after an intense day of negotiations that saw Rigathi compete with Tharaka Nithi Senator Kithure Kindiki.
“We had a 17-hour marathon meeting, where we had the opportunity to interrogate many issues that are of concern and that are in the frame and context of Kenya Kwanza.”
“It is about the people and the people issues, particularly the economy. As you are aware we have in the last several weeks admitted new members and they have come with new insights,” he stated.
Ruto also commended other potential running mates who he described as formidable candidates who missed the seat by a whisker.
They included Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, Kandara MP Alice Wahome, National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi,Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, and Tharaka Nithi Senator Kithure Kindiki.
He lauded Gachagua as a political symbol who exudes the hustler and bottom-up narrative that forms the hallmark of Kenya Kwanza’s campaign.
“In the end, the consensus pointed out an individual who scored excellent points in every parameter. A fantastic grassroots mobiliser and disciplined tactical operative. A successful politician of tremendous resolve and fierce fighter for the right cause and indefatigable champion of the betrayed, downtrodden, despised and ignored.”
“A living example of a true hustler who rose from the hardships of our freedom struggle to the pinnacle of professional and political success,” the DP noted.
Ruto, while handing Gachagua his first assignment, appointed him alongside Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria to lead the economic team that would charter the economic blueprint of the coalition.
“I am looking forward to you and the team delivering the agenda that we have issued out. You know what we need to do and you have the understanding and the knowledge of the project.”
“You will provide for us a context on how we will have the charters from all the counties. Kenya Kwanza intends to sign a charter with all the counties on their priority agenda so that we hit the road on day one,” he stated.
More to follow
Source: KENYAGIST.COM
