Gachagua visits driver's home for lunch

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua meets the family members of his driver Sammy Cheborgey at Irimis village, Nandi County. [Edward Kosut, Standard]

The day started as usual for Sammy Cheborgey, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's driver. His boss had a series of functions in Nandi County on that day.

Mr Gachagua was to be in Nandi County for a two-day tour, which started with a church fundraiser at St Marks Anglican Church in Nandi Hills Constituency on Saturday.

Mr Cheborgey was on standby to take his boss to the next meeting at Kobujoi, but shortly before they could set off, the DP told him that he would pass by his home for lunch.

This came as a surprise to Cheborgey, he didn't believe that the DP could visit his humble abode in Irimis village, about three Kilometres from Kapsabet town.

At 2.40pm, the fundraiser ended, and the DP's convoy snaked through Lessos-Kapsabet road before branching to Irimis village.

Driver Sammy Cheborgey introduces his family, friends and neighbours to DP Rigathi Gachagua. [DPCS]

"I was perplexed. I did not believe DP Gachagua could be my guest, though I had alerted my wife to prepare for his entourage. Word quickly spread, and by the time we got there neighbours had arrived to receive the leaders outside my gate," Cheborgey narrated.

Gachagua was accompanied by Governor Stephen Sang and Senator Samson Cherargey among other leaders.

No sooner had we arrived than ululation rented the air as hundreds of residents sang 'Nyoo Nyoo Inyee', a Kalenjin son, loosely translated as 'you are welcome'.

Residents scrambled

The young and old elbowed each other to catch a glimpse of the DP.

Despite the hawk-eyed presidential security guards that were around the DP, making sure that nothing went amiss, the residents scrambled to shake his hand.

Cheborgey introduced his family, friends and neighbours to the guests and all the guests had an epic party after that. Food was served in plenty as the DP spent ample time with family.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua receives a gift from his long-serving driver Sammy Cheborgey in Emgwen, Nandi County. [DPCS]

"The DP's visit came as a surprise. Before elections, the DP had once told me during a visit to the region that he wanted to know my home. I never saw it coming due to his busy schedule, but today I'm glad he has come to see me, an ordinary person in the village," he stated.

He said that he has worked as Gachagua's driver since the DP was elected Mathira MP. He stayed at the DP's home and they became close friends.

Gachagua described Cheborgey as hard-working and committed to his work.

"I have known him since I was MP. He took care of me when I was in custody. He brought me food and regularly checked on me. I regarded him as a brother because of his unmatched loyalty," he said.

The DP further urged leaders to emulate him by respecting friends regardless of their level and social class.

"Leadership is all about friendship, and one should reward loyal friends. Though I am the deputy president, I am just a simple man. I like walking around my village greeting friends and schoolmates when I get time," said Gachagua.