Kenyans who use the name “Riggy G” in violation of trademark law would be compelled to pay Ksh200,000 or risk serving five years in prison.
This comes after Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s trademark application was accepted by the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) on April 30.
The deputy president submitted an application for the trademark on November 10, 2022, according to a document made available by the institute, preventing anyone else from using the name without his consent.
Gachagua will have complete rights to utilize the term “Riggy G” in all forms of printed matter, apparel and headgear, and entertainment events, among other things, unless someone files a legitimate opposition within a six-month window.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua spoke to county assembly members on May 14.
The document detailed that individuals will not be allowed to use the phrase on the following;
This includes “certain goods made of paper or cardboard not otherwise classified by function or purpose; figurines and works of art of paper or cardboard.
“Framed or unframed lithographs, paintings and watercolours; address stamps; booklets; advertisement boards; magazines; packaging material; paper bags, envelopes and containers for packaging,” the document read in part.
According to the orgsanisation, ” Unless someone files a valid opposition, Mr Gachagua will have full rights to use the “Riggy G” in all types of printed material, clothing and headgear, entertainment events, among others.”
The nickname went viral after Catholic University law student Ivy Chelimo shared her views on the deputy presidential debate in July last year.
It didn’t take long for Gachagua to embrace it and he later on met Chelimo in October, a month after his swearing in.
