Gachagua rejects Duale debate invite, says he will only face President Ruto

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Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has rejected a public debate challenge issued by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, insisting he will only engage President William Ruto in a presidential debate in 2027.

Mr Duale on Wednesday, while speaking at a NYOTA youth empowerment event at Garissa High School during the President’s development tour of northern Kenya, challenged Mr Gachagua to a live televised debate.

The Health CS proposed that the face-off be held on Citizen TV’s Jeff Koinange Live (JKLive) programme.

“I am ready for a live debate on national television. Let us meet at the JK Live bench,” Mr Duale said.

He was referring to Citizen TV's Jeff Koinange’s bench (JK Live on Wednesdays) to discuss development issues, particularly in the North Eastern region.

Mr Duale questioned the former deputy president’s recent criticism of the administration and urged him to defend his record in office.

On Thursday, Mr Gachagua responded through his official social media platforms, dismissing the invitation and ruling out engagement with Cabinet Secretaries.

“I have heard an employee of William Ruto was inviting me to some debate. Laughable! I don’t debate nor engage employees of William Ruto,” Mr Gachagua said.

He added that he would only participate in one debate--the next presidential debate--which he said should be between himself and President Ruto.

“I am only available for one debate with the Ruto team, the Presidential Debate next year between Mr William Ruto and I. His employees should help him prepare talking notes early enough,” he stated.

Mr Gachagua did not mention Mr Duale by name, but his remarks followed the Health CS’s public challenge in Garissa.

The exchange underscores sharpening political positioning as early alignments take shape ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Mr Gachagua has intensified criticism of the administration following his fallout with President Ruto, positioning himself as a key opposition voice.

Mr Duale, a senior ally of the President, remains an outspoken defender of the government’s development agenda.

Public debate challenges are often used as strategic tools to frame narratives, test political ground and energise support bases ahead of formal campaign periods.

There was no immediate official response from State House regarding Mr Gachagua’s remarks.

Kenya traditionally hosts presidential debates during election years, providing candidates with a national platform to articulate policy priorities.

Mr Gachagua’s response suggests he intends to reserve direct confrontation for that stage, signalling confidence in a potential head-to-head contest with the President.