President William Ruto has vowed to protect the interest of the widows and orphans in his latest remark targeting his former political ally.

At the center of the storm is the multi-million shilling legacy of the late Nyeri Governor Nderitu Gachagua, which the President has now vowed to “return” to the late governor’s widow and children.

The escalation followed a direct appeal to the President by Margaret Nyokabi Nderitu and her four children.

The family alleges they have been subjected to years of tribulation due to a “doctored” Will, claiming that a brother of the deceased used political influence to defraud them of prime assets, including a hotel in Nairobi and property in Kilifi.

Framing his intervention as a moral crusade, President Ruto declared that while he could withstand political insults, he would not remain silent while widows and orphans were disinherited.

“What belongs to orphans and widows must be returned,” the President stated, asserting that the properties were illegally acquired following the governor’s death in 2017.

Rigathi Gachagua fired back with a rebuttal, warning the President to stay out of private family matters.

Characterizing the move as a divisive tactic aimed at the Mt. Kenya region, Gachagua told the President to “focus on your own Kalenjin family” and leave the Gachagua household alone.

The intensifying war of words has also drawn criticism from across the political aisle.

Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka questioned the President’s timing and consistency, arguing that it is improper for a Head of State to make such damaging allegations against a former running mate years after they were elected together.

Kalonzo suggested that making serious criminal claims without providing evidence undermines the dignity of the presidency.

As the state moves to potentially intervene in these private legal matters, the battle over the late governor’s millions adds a volatile and litigious new chapter to Kenya’s fractured top leadership.