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Mwea MP Mary Maingi confronts Rigathi Gachagua during a phone address at a Kirinyaga burial
via Tuko2 min read
A burial ceremony in Kirinyaga county for Mzee Francis Ngari, father of Michael Kinyua Ngari, treasurer of the Mwea Irrigation Scheme Water Users Association, was disrupted by a confrontation involving former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua and Mwea MP Mary Maingi. Gachagua addressed mourners via phone after Tebere Ward MCA Peter Karinga set up the call, noting Gachagua and the deceased were schoolmates. During his address, Gachagua criticized government policies, specifically mentioning rice imports, and accused elected leaders, including Maingi, of failing to defend community interests and siding with the government. He stated, “The biggest problem in our community is traitors, the leaders we elected who do not advocate for our people. They collude with Kasongo Ruto as he oppresses us. For instance, your MP Mary Maingi is a traitor to the community, she sits with Ruto as he oppresses us.” Maingi, seated among the mourners, reacted strongly to these remarks, standing up and shouting in protest. A brief physical struggle over the microphone ensued, temporarily interrupting the ceremony, with Maingi repeatedly shouting “shame on you” to Gachagua over the phone.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Tuko.
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Stabex International Ltd Chairman Jackson Chebett has filed a defamation lawsuit against former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua. Chebett accuses Gachagua of making false and damaging claims linking him and his company to a controversial government-to-government fuel deal. Chebett maintains that neither he nor Stabex has any involvement in the G-G fuel supply framework, nor does he operate as a proxy for President William Ruto. He asserts that his business dealings are independent and transparent, built over many years in the energy and real estate sectors. Chebett claims Gachagua's remarks were made repeatedly, without factual verification, and driven by malice and political motives, causing significant harm to his public image, reputational damage, loss of business opportunities, and emotional distress. He states that Stabex International Ltd operates over 200 fuel stations and 14 depots across East Africa. Chebett is seeking a permanent injunction to prevent further publication of the statements, a public apology, and damages for the harm caused. A demand letter sent to Gachagua on April 9 reportedly went unheeded.