Gachagua Opens Up on Grabbing Brother’s Wealth After Family Sought Ruto Intervention

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has come out to strongly defend himself against allegations that he disinherited the family of his late brother, Nderitu Gachagua, insisting that the distribution of the estate was conducted lawfully and transparently.

Speaking amid growing controversy, Gachagua dismissed claims made by some family members who recently petitioned President William Ruto seeking intervention in the matter. 

The family had raised concerns over alleged fraud, forgery, and irregular handling of the late governor’s wealth.

In their petition dated March 23, 2026, the family claimed that a contested will used to distribute the estate was not authentic. 

They argued that the document was prepared when the late Nderitu was critically ill and therefore incapable of making sound legal decisions. 

Additionally, they alleged that a close relative had taken advantage of the situation to orchestrate schemes aimed at disinheriting rightful beneficiaries.

However, Gachagua has rubbished these allegations, maintaining that the succession process was completed years ago under the law and with full participation of all beneficiaries. 

According to him, his late brother had prepared a comprehensive will that clearly outlined how his wealth was to be shared among family members.

“The late Nderitu Gachagua wrote a will and distributed his property to everyone. He included his wives, children, siblings, and other dependents, totaling 21 beneficiaries,” Gachagua explained.

He further revealed that the will provided a structured formula for sharing the estate, with specific percentages allocated to each beneficiary. 

The process, he said, was overseen by appointed executors who were tasked with selling assets, settling debts, and distributing the remaining proceeds accordingly.

Gachagua noted that in 2018, all beneficiaries appeared before a court and unanimously agreed to the contents of the will. 

The court then adopted the document and granted authority for its implementation, effectively concluding the succession process.

“We went to court, and all beneficiaries confirmed they were satisfied with the will. The court adopted it, and the executors carried out their duties as required. That process was completed eight years ago,” he stated.

The former Deputy President questioned why the issue is being revived now, suggesting that the renewed dispute could be politically motivated. 

He accused President William Ruto of attempting to interfere in a private family matter for political gain, arguing that matters of succession fall strictly under the jurisdiction of the courts.

Gachagua emphasized that the president has no legal authority to reverse a court-sanctioned succession process, describing such claims as misleading.

“Succession issues are handled by the courts, not the president. If anyone is dissatisfied, they should seek legal redress, not political intervention,” he added.

The dispute has attracted public attention due to the prominence of the individuals involved and the serious allegations raised by the family.

Among the contested assets are reportedly high-value properties, including hospitality establishments and other investments linked to the late governor.

Despite the ongoing tension, Gachagua remains firm that the matter was settled legally and conclusively, urging those aggrieved to follow due process through the judicial system.