Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has responded to Aden Duale’s challenge for a televised debate, stating that he is above the health cabinet secretary.
CS Duale had challenged Gachagua on Wednesday to a televised debate on development in the northeastern region.
Duale issued the challenge during a youth empowerment event at Garissa High School, where President Ruto presided over the disbursement of NYOTA funds aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs. He criticized Gachagua’s recent remarks on regional development and called for a public platform to settle the matter.
“I am challenging Gachagua to a debate on development in the northeastern region. President Ruto, leave him to me. I will deal with him,” Duale said.
The Health CS even suggested a specific platform for the debate, proposing Citizen TV’s Jeff Koinange Live as the ideal venue for the face-off.
Duale’s challenge also roped in President Ruto, who shut it down by declaring that his administration will not be sidetracked by political showdowns.
“I want to tell my friend Aden Duale, those who know English normally say, ‘Don’t argue with a fool; people will not know the difference,” Ruto said, drawing applause and laughter from the audience.
“Let us not waste our time. We have an agenda for this nation and a program.”
Now, Rigathi Gachagua has seemingly had the last word on the matter, declaring that he can only debate with President Ruto.
Taking to social media on Thursday, February 12, 2026, Gachagua posted:
“I have heard an employee of William Ruto was inviting me to some debate. Laughable! I don’t debate or engage with the employees of William Ruto. I am only available for one debate with the Ruto team, the presidential debate next year between Mr. William Ruto and me. His employees should help him prepare talking notes early enough.”
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