In Embu, Rigathi Gachagua accused President William Ruto of sending Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale to insult the Mt Kenya community.Duale's remarks comparing Central Kenyans to hyenas sparked outrage, with Gachagua vowing decisive electoral punishment for Ruto in 2027.The DCP leader claimed the president used Duale to demean the region, promising voters would 'eat' Ruto if he persisted.Duale defended his comments as calls for inclusivity, denying ethnic incitement and criticizing those who ignored past attacks on Somali communities.

Gachagua, impeached as deputy president in 2024, is positioning himself as a key opposition voice ahead of the 2027 polls, framing the dispute as a battle for regional pride and political power.