Top government jobs will only go to Ruto loyalists, Gachagua says

"Those who have questions should face me since I am the one who said that, which is the truth. How can anyone expect us to give sensitive jobs to people who did not believe in our agenda in the first place?" he said.

The deputy president said contrary to opinions that he was the one opposed to the President having a handshake with opposition leader Raila Odinga, Ruto was the one who is more strict about the matter.

He said the President believes the opposition should play its role of keeping the government in check.

Gachagua said Raila has been seeking photo opportunities with the President to "cool down" his supporters. He said the opposition leader is welcome to all Presidential engagements across the country and that Kenya Kwanza did not have a problem with him.

The DP said the recent meetings in which Raila was seen with the President during athletics and soccer events in Nairobi last week were not planned.

"But when it comes to the running of government let it be known that at no point are we going to share power," said Gachagua.

The Deputy President said when he said the country's economy was in ICU during Dr Ruto's inauguration some people thought he was being reckless but it has now been proven to be true.

Gachagua said the August 2022 general election was won fairly with leaders from across the world recognising Ruto's win, which has been affirmed by the leaders visiting the country to meet the President.

Those who have issues (with that) should wait and try their luck in 2027, the DP said.

The Deputy President said the government is on a journey to improve the economy and asked Kenyans to trust the intervention measures.

"We are out to build UDA to be a serious political machine that will be around for 100 years. We are first establishing fully equipped offices in all counties and opening it up for more Kenyans to register as party members," said Gachagua.

The DP welcomed former Migori Governor Okoth Obado to the party, saying more senior leaders who were forced to be in coalitions will be joining UDA.

UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala said the party has 9.8 million registered members. They are targeting more than 15 million members, he said.