Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua
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former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has postponed the launch of his political party, citing potential government interference as a key factor.
Speaking at a church event in Kitengela on Sunday, Gachagua alleged that undisclosed government elements were prepared to obstruct the unveiling of what he termed his "political vehicle." Despite readiness, he says he had to account for anticipated obstacles posed by political adversaries, postponing the announcement. Gachagua has indicated the party's national chairman would originate from Kajiado County.
Gachagua further accuses President Ruto's Kenya Kwanza government of impropriety, alleging that the Bomas of Kenya was handed over to a Turkish businessman with ties to a powerful figure within the government. He criticizes Kenya Kwanza allies for perceived timidity in addressing misconduct, asserting that they were too intimidated by the head of state. The former Deputy President had previously indicated a launch date in February for May 2025, planning to host the event in Nairobi to accommodate nationwide supporters.
Gachagua's actions occur amidst a shifting political landscape. He appears to be aligning with Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua, forming an opposition bloc against the Kenya Kwanza regime. This alliance will face a formidable challenge, contending with a faction that includes the top two candidates who collectively garnered a majority of votes in the 2022 general election.
In other developments, Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has urged Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka to engage in dialogue with President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga following the recent cooperation agreement between the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM). Nyong'o's appeal comes in response to Kalonzo’s criticism of the UDA-ODM pact, which he characterizes as a betrayal of Kenyans.
However, Nyong’o, in a statement released Sunday, defended the agreement as being in the best interest of the nation, suggesting Kalonzo should seek ways to participate in the partnership rather than accuse Odinga of betraying the Azimio coalition. He points out that Kalonzo has been meeting with various political figures, including Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, without consulting Azimio members, a move Nyong’o says they respected as Kalonzo's democratic right.
Nyong’o emphasizes that the UDA-ODM memorandum of understanding aims to foster a stronger, more inclusive democratic political culture. Homa Bay Governor and ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga has echoed Nyong’o’s sentiments, rebuking Kalonzo's accusation of betrayal. Wanga states that Odinga’s decision to work with Ruto was motivated by the country's welfare and calls on Kenyans to support the two leaders' efforts to unite the nation.