Pastor Dorcas Addresses Claims She Dominates Husband Rigathi Gachagua

Pastor Dorcas Rigathi appeared to address recent claims by Kikuyu Member of Parliament (MP) Kimani Ichung’wah, who alleged she was exerting undue influence over her husband, Rigathi Gachagua, during their joint public engagements.

While speaking to a group of clergy in the U.S., the former Second Lady dismissed the claims, saying it would be nearly impossible to control someone like Gachagua, whom she described as a strong political force in the country.

She went on to explain that Gachagua often let her speak first at public events because they operated as a united team.

According to her, there was nothing unusual about their close collaboration, as it reflected the family values they consistently promoted.

Pastor Dorcas and her husband Rigathi Gachagua during a past engagement. /NTV

“That is why sometimes, when he allows me to speak first, it is not because I heard I 'sit on him'. How can you sit on a man like this, who is causing the whole nation not to sleep?” she quipped.

“A man whom the President, the Deputy President, and MPs hardly stop talking about. I keep hearing them say Wamunyoro. Is that the kind of man you think your claims could apply to? You are such liars,” she stated.

Pastor Dorcas Rigathi reaffirmed her unwavering support for her husband, stating that no amount of public scrutiny would stop her from loving him, praying for him, or backing his vision for the country.

Her comments came shortly after National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah publicly attacked her during a political rally, igniting widespread criticism.

In his remarks, Ichung’wah—while continuing his usual jabs at Gachagua—implied that the former Deputy President was facing marital issues and being controlled by his wife.

The remarks sparked backlash from Kenyans across the political spectrum, with many urging Ichung’wah to keep his criticisms focused on Gachagua and avoid dragging Pastor Dorcas into political disputes.

The situation escalated further when women leaders allied to Gachagua united in condemning the MP's remarks and even called on the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to take legal action against him.

“We have information that you are targeting women, and as women in DCP, we are not happy. We want the DCI to apply the same energy they're using to pursue women in DCP to arrest Kimani Ichung’wah,” one of the leaders stated.

During the same press conference, Njeri Kahiga, a close ally of Rigathi Gachagua, slammed Ichung’wah’s remarks, calling them irresponsible and disrespectful.

She lauded Pastor Dorcas as a revered national leader, widely recognised for her compassion and her advocacy work in mental health, support for widows and orphans, and empowering the boychild.

So far, Ichung’wah has not issued an apology, even as the backlash surrounding his comments continues to grow.