Deputy President Gachagua Responds to Ichung'wah's Village Comments
The dispute between Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and National arose when Ichung'wah postulated that effective leadership transcends mere village affiliations.
Addressing the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya International Scientific Conference in Mombasa today, Gachagua resolutely embraced his rural origins, expressing bewilderment at the criticism against him for being branded a "villager." He asserted that every individual has a place they call home, and it is imperative to honour that heritage. Furthermore, Gachagua defends his staunch adherence to using vernacular when visiting his village in Nyeri County. He refuses to be coerced into speaking Swahili or English, asserting that using the local language is a sign of profound respect for his origins.
The controversy deepened when Ichung'wah insinuated that Gachagua's loyalty to the Mt Kenya region was a ploy to manipulate President William Ruto. The Majority Leader accused Gachagua of attempting to blackmail Ruto. However, Gachagua maintains that neither Ruto nor the Kenyan government would yield to such tactics, dismissing sympathy-seeking photos, vernacular campaigns, and social media posts as ineffective tools for financial gain. Adding fuel to the fire, a photograph of Deputy President Gachagua flying to Mombasa using the national carrier circulated online, intensifying the debate.
“I am talking in English because some of you may not understand my language. I will talk Kiswahili when I go where people cannot understand. But if I go to the village what business do I have talking to people in English and I am not a white person. Won’t that be arrogance and pride?” poses Gachagua.
While some interpreted it as a deliberate political move, Gachagua remains firm, emphasizing that his actions are rooted in authenticity and respect for his heritage. Prominent political figures from Murang'a have voiced their support for Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's efforts to bring unity to the Mount Kenya region. Maragua Member of Parliament Mary Waithera and five influential local county representatives are at the forefront of this endorsement.
In an address to her constituents on Saturday, Waithera shed light on the underlying motives behind the negative perceptions surrounding Gachagua's endeavours. She asserted that these critiques stem from those who oppose the unification of the Mount Kenya community. The lawmaker emphasized the importance of grassroots politics, which serves as the bedrock upon which political aspirations are built.