President William Ruto has articulated his criteria for working with opposition leaders, notably excluding his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, due to concerns about divisive rhetoric and ethnic bigotry.

• President Ruto stated he would not work with leaders who promote "ethnic bigotry" or engage in "divisive rhetoric."
• The key individuals involved are President William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
• This stance marks a clear distinction from Ruto's willingness to cooperate with other opposition figures, such as Raila Odinga, and suggests a deep-seated reason for the collapse of his partnership with Gachagua.