Speaking at a political gathering, Gachagua claimed Ruto spent Ksh40 million to sway the nominations but was allegedly outmaneuvered by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria.
According to Gachagua, Kuria’s political sabotage left the President embarrassed despite the hefty financial outlay.
The former Deputy President portrayed the episode as evidence of deepening internal wrangles within the Kenya Kwanza administration ahead of the 2027 General Election.
He argued that senior government officials are fighting each other behind the scenes while taxpayers’ money is misused for political battles instead of addressing Kenya’s economic challenges.
Once a close Ruto ally, Gachagua has become one of the administration’s fiercest critics since their fallout, frequently accusing the government of betrayal and mismanagement.
Political analysts say the public attacks could reshape the Mt Kenya region’s political landscape, where both Gachagua and Kuria wield significant influence.
Neither President Ruto nor CS Kuria had responded to the claims by the time of publication.
However, observers expect the remarks to trigger fresh reactions from UDA leaders as the widening cracks in the ruling coalition become increasingly visible.