Digital Duel as Gachagua, Ruto Battle for Livestream Viewers at Kiaraho Requiem

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua drew significant online attention during the requiem mass of the late Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho, despite not being listed among the scheduled speakers.

The event, attended by President William Ruto and other leaders, exposed growing political undercurrents as rival camps competed for influence both on the ground and online ahead of the 2027 elections.

As of 1:19 PM as seen by The Hourly NewsWave , a livestream on the President’s official Facebook page had attracted about 11,000 views, while a parallel broadcast linked to Gachagua pulled roughly 21,000 viewers, highlighting his sustained digital influence.

Tensions briefly emerged at the ceremony after Assistant Director of Protocol and Events in the Executive Office of the President, Chipukeezy, was seen clashing with Gachagua’s media team over access and coverage.

Further drama unfolded when members of the United Opposition were temporarily blocked from accessing the main dais, sparking reactions among attendees.

In a video that circulated widely online, Nyandarua Senator John Methu and Embakasi Central MP Major Donk were initially denied entry before later being allowed onto the dais.

A requiem programme seen by The Hourly Newswave confirmed that Gachagua had not been scheduled to speak, reflecting ongoing friction between him and the current administration.

However, he had earlier signalled his intention to attend during a recent church service, insisting he would be present despite the apparent snub.

“Hauwezi kufukuza sisi kwa ofisi na ufukuze sisi nyumbani. We will be there. I will personally get there a day earlier so I can prepare adequately,” Gachagua said.

Once given the opportunity to address mourners, he struck a conciliatory tone towards President Ruto but criticised some of his allies, including Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah.

Gachagua urged restraint among attendees, emphasising the need to maintain decorum during the solemn occasion.

“There will be no confrontation here. This is a solemn occasion, and we come in peace and I am sure, President, you have come in peace,” he said.

“He should be listened to and when he finishes, he should be allowed to go. I do not want to hear anything from you when the president starts to speak,” he added.

“I do not want to hear ‘One Term’ here. That is something we will do out there. This is a respectful event.”

Kiaraho, who served as Ol Kalou MP since 2013, died on March 29, 2026, while undergoing treatment at Nairobi Hospital.

He is remembered for his contribution to infrastructure development and constituency projects in Nyandarua County, as well as his service in the Departmental Committee on Transport and Infrastructure and the Procedure and House Rules Committee.