Gachagua’s “Wantam” Chalk Mark in Silicon Valley Sparks Political Buzz

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has once again sparked conversation, this time far from Kenya’s political arena. During a tour of Silicon Valley, he visited Meta’s headquarters and left his mark on the company’s iconic Facebook wall, writing the word “Wantam” — slang for “one term,” a slogan tied to his political base’s call for President William Ruto to serve only a single term in office.

The visit came just months after Gachagua’s impeachment by Parliament, a move that deepened an already tense relationship with the president. “Wantam” has since become a rallying cry for his supporters, appearing at rallies, in online posts, and now on a wall that has hosted messages from tech leaders, celebrities, and visiting dignitaries.

At Meta, Gachagua toured the sprawling campus, met with Kenyan employees, and discussed the role of young tech talent in shaping Kenya’s future. He spoke about drawing on the skills of Kenyan Gen Z professionals to boost the country’s digital economy and hinted at plans to harness these networks ahead of the 2027 elections.

Stopping at the interactive Facebook wall — a long-standing tradition for visitors — Gachagua picked up a piece of chalk and wrote “Wantam” in bold strokes. His wife, Dorcas, stepped up next to add a personal note: “Life is what you make out of it.” The contrast between his politically loaded message and her uplifting sentiment quickly became a talking point online.

Photos and videos from the visit spread rapidly on social media. Reactions ranged from amused to sharply political, with some interpreting the chalk message as playful banter, while others saw it as a pointed statement against the current administration. Among his supporters, the gesture was hailed as a reminder that their cause has a voice even on the global stage.

Others turned the moment into a broader conversation about wealth and leadership, contrasting global tech figures who built fortunes through innovation with Kenyan politicians who often face public scrutiny over riches accumulated without visible private enterprises beyond government-linked dealings.

Later in the trip, Gachagua visited Google, where he met more Kenyan tech workers and praised their innovation and creativity. He described the Kenyan diaspora as a “skills mix” the country must tap into, underscoring his emphasis on youth-driven digital growth.

Whether seen as a symbolic jab, a savvy publicity move, or simply a lighthearted moment abroad, the “Wantam” scribble ensured Gachagua stayed in the headlines — and kept the one-term debate alive both at home and in the diaspora.

Featured image via Screengrab