Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua sparked a political storm in Malindi Town, Kilifi County, on Sunday, leading supporters to chant “Wantam,” a slogan advocating for a one-term presidency for President William Ruto.
The event, which took place during a public rally, has intensified political tensions as Gachagua continues his campaign against Ruto ahead of the 2027 elections.
Accompanied by Kalonzo Musyoka, Gachagua continued with his brute-force attack against his former friend President William Ruto.
The “Wantam” chant, a corruption of “one term,” has gained traction among Gachagua’s supporters, particularly in regions critical of the current administration.
Addressing a charged crowd, Gachagua criticized Ruto’s leadership, accusing the government of failing to address economic hardships and other pressing issues.
The rally saw significant participation from residents, with social media posts capturing the fervour of the event.
“Wantam is our call for change,” Gachagua declared, rallying the crowd in Malindi, a key coastal town. The former deputy president, who was impeached in October 2024 on charges including corruption and ethnic discrimination, has been vocal in his bid to challenge Ruto’s re-election.
His appearance in Kilifi, a region traditionally aligned with opposition politics, signals an effort to broaden his political base. Gachagua claims that he is now visiting the cousins of the mountain.
Local leaders, including some Kilifi politicians, distanced themselves from the event, with others urging calm to avoid escalating political divisions.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has previously stated that the “Wantam” slogan does not constitute hate speech, though it continues to monitor its use amid rising political rhetoric.
Rigathi Gachagua leads the Wantam slogan in Malindi pic.twitter.com/jV6rDrRV1v
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