NAIROBI, KENYA – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua ventured into uncharted waters of political outreach on Thursday evening, hosting a TikTok Live session that captured the attention of thousands of Kenyans and political observers alike. The two-hour session, moderated by content creator Kuira wa Kabiru and supported by other panelists, touched on critical issues including the Social Health Authority (SHA) and Kenya’s current political landscape.
Gachagua also responded directly to remarks by President William Ruto, who had accused certain leaders of focusing on personal vendettas rather than developmental agendas, stating, “Instead of discussing roads, they are discussing Rigathi Gachagua.”
A Modern Campaign Strategy
Gachagua’s choice of TikTok as a communication platform reflects a shift in Kenyan political campaigning, targeting the tech-savvy youth and diaspora communities. As traditional campaign mediums like print and television give way to digital platforms, TikTok is emerging as a critical tool for politicians aiming to connect with voters on a more personal level.
“This is about engaging with Kenyans where they are, in a manner that resonates with them,” Gachagua noted during the live stream, highlighting the importance of leveraging technology to bridge the gap between leaders and citizens.
Interference Allegations and Resilience
Despite the session’s success in attracting a large audience, it was not without challenges. Gachagua’s broadcast faced abrupt interruptions, including moments where he was muted and cut off mid-sentence. While moderators attributed these disruptions to external interference, Gachagua accused the National Intelligence Service (NIS) of attempting to stifle his message. He drew parallels to similar experiences during his impeachment proceedings, asserting that such tactics only strengthened his resolve to connect with the public.
The Rise of TikTok in Kenyan Politics
TikTok’s rapid rise as a political tool is not unique to Kenya but reflects a global trend. In the U.S., former President Donald Trump reversed his earlier opposition to the platform, using it to connect with young voters during his 2024 campaign, a move he later credited for part of his electoral success.
In Kenya, TikTok’s influence is undeniable. A 2024 report revealed that the platform had over 10.6 million registered users aged 18 and above, making it a key medium for political communication. Kenya also boasts the highest TikTok usage rate globally, with 54% of its population using the app for news, entertainment, and now, political discourse.
Unlike Instagram’s polished visuals or Facebook’s structured posts, TikTok thrives on spontaneity, offering politicians a chance to present themselves authentically. From casual walking-and-talking videos to unscripted commentary, the platform allows leaders to connect with voters on a human level, making their messages more relatable and impactful.
A New Era in Political Campaigning
Gachagua’s TikTok debut signals a new era in Kenyan politics, where digital platforms play a central role in shaping narratives and engaging voters. The platform’s algorithm ensures that
