DP Gachagua to be admitted for 48-72 hours over chest pains, Karen Hospital says

Karen Hospital's Chief Cardiologist, Dr. Dan Gikonyo, has confirmed that Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was admitted for chest pains and will remain under observation for at least 48 to 72 hours.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, Gikonyo assured the public that the Deputy President’s condition was stable but needed more assessment and monitoring for his safety.

"The Deputy President came in with some chest pain. When you come to the hospital with chest pain, our first concern is whether it started with the heart, and our job is to make sure that there is no risk of a heart attack," Gikonyo explained.

He emphasised that a series of tests, including blood tests and ECGs, are being conducted to ensure there is no imminent danger.

“Right now, he's stable, the pain is less, and his blood pressure is okay," he added.

When asked about possible causes of chest pains, Gikonyo highlighted that heart trouble is common for individuals over the age of 45 or 50, especially those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.

"Every adult over 45 and 50 can get heart trouble, particularly if you have high blood pressure or diabetes. Even a bit of stress can trigger heart issues," he said.

He also noted that stress could contribute to heart problems, referencing conditions like "broken heart syndrome" or "taco super syndrome," which can severely affect the heart.

The doctor pointed out that the Deputy President’s non-smoking habit was beneficial, though heart risks still exist.

Gikonyo reaffirmed that Gachagua was being treated according to standard medical procedures.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua (right) with lawyer Tom Macharia at the Senate on October 16, 2024. (Photo: Senate)

"He’s quite stable. We’re conducting all the necessary tests, such as blood tests, ECGs, and echoes. We’re also administering medications like aspirin and cholesterol management treatments,” he said.

Regarding the duration of his hospital stay, Gikonyo explained, "When you come with chest pain to any hospital, you’ll typically be held for 48 to 72 hours to rule out serious issues."

"We wouldn't want to rush and make a mistake," he said, confirming that the Deputy President would remain under observation until the medical team was certain of his health condition.

Gachagua failed to appear at the Senate in the afternoon sitting where he was supposed to take the stand in his impeachment trial.

His legal team, led by Senior Counsel Paul Muite, requested the House to adjourn the hearings to Saturday, October 19, due to the Deputy President's hospitalisation.

However, the Senate decided to move forward with the proceedings.

Following the ruling, Muite and team walked out of the Senate in protest, noting that they could not continue with the defence without their client, whom they were unable to directly contact.

“We decide to take leave because we will be perpetuating an illegality if we were to sit in Parliament without adequate instruction from our client,” Lawyer Ndegwa Njiru further told the media.

“So we also take this opportunity to wish the Deputy President a quick recovery.”

He noted that the next step will be provided when the “time is right.”