How Itumbi Coached Gachagua to Beat Karua

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua participating in a mock debate prior to the presidential debate in July 2022.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua participating in a mock debate prior to the presidential debate in July 2022.
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Dennis Itumbi

Details of Kenya Kwanza's preparations for the deputy presidential candidates' debate emerged revealing how  Rigathi Gachagua was coached to beat Azimio la Umoja running mate Martha Karua in the televised event. 

In a detailed post on September 20,  digital strategist - Dennis Itumbi - divulged that a team of 10 experts helped in prepping deputy president Rigathi Gachagua for the debate held on July 19.

Kenya Kwanza set up a room similar to that of the debate held at the Catholic University of East Africa (CUEA) and put the DP in the spotlight. 

Notably, the team also had a lady who stood in for Karua, tasked with conducting the mock experiment.

UDA Presidential running mate Rigathi Gachagua and Azimio La Umoja Presidential running mate Martha Karua on Tuesday, July 19, during a debate at CUEA.
UDA Presidential running mate Rigathi Gachagua and Azimio La Umoja Presidential running mate Martha Karua on Tuesday, July 19, during a debate at CUEA.
Kenyans.co.ke

"Hustler nation worked hard. In between the campaigns, we practised for the debates. Nothing was taken for granted. We even had a 'Martha Karua', whose brief was to annoy the then Deputy Presidential candidate Rigathi Gachagua.

The digital strategist, who led the exercise, also recounted how they had to put the DP on the spot with the aim of ensuring he outshines Karua.

"Gachagua also practised being patient as we pushed him to the corner, much more than the media could even imagine. He did very well behind the scenes, then excelled on the main stage.

"While we helped prepare Gachagua, he really mentored us along the way. It was worth each minute. Practice hard, play easy," he stated.

Gachagua and Karua faced each other on July 19, with the Sophia Wanuna of KTN  and NTV's James Smart moderating the debate.

Prior to the polls, various reports indicated that some of Kenya Kwanza's allies had concerns over Gachagua's candidature, who they argued was inconsiderate with his remarks and would create controversy. 

Notably, these were some of the reservations that were raised during the selection of the Kenya Kwanza's running mate. Former Tharaka Nithi senator, Prof Kithure Kindiki, beat Gachagua on all fronts but still lost the race. 

Gachagua was chosen on the basis that he was one of the best grassroots mobilisers. 

Nonetheless, on her part, Karua had earlier indicated that she also prepared in advance to beat Gachagua.

Jubilee SG  Jeremiah Kioni, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Narc Kenya party leader Martha Karua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka during Azimio PG on September 16, 2022.
Jubilee SG Jeremiah Kioni, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Narc Kenya party leader Martha Karua and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka during Azimio PG on September 16, 2022.
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Raila Odinga

Speaking to KBC days after the debate, she indicated that she was aware of Gachagua attempting to get her angry - a move she stated flopped.

"Those who stated that it was not in my nature are those who are supporting a given political faction. What took me there is to explain our agenda. It was not my first time attending a debate. 

"Equally, it was not my first time to be on TV. There are standards for the debate and I followed them. You (Gachagua) thought you were smart and could easily rile me up. They are the ones who are now disappointed," Karua argued.