Ombija, now
a Nyakach parliamentary aspirant aligned with President Ruto’s movement, told
supporters on September 18 that Gachagua called Royal Media Services for his
removal due to their March 2026 clash and ethnic differences.
RMS Editorial Director Linus Kaikai denied any such call, stressing editorial independence, and shared that Ombija called it a 'mistake' he regretted, not expecting it to be recorded.
Critics accused him of stirring ethnic tensions for votes in Luo Nyanza, raising broader worries about journalists entering politics and the risks of tribal rhetoric ahead of Kenya’s 2027 elections.