President William Ruto and DP Rigathi Gachagua speak to residents in Kagumo, Kirinyaga County, on August 10, 2024. IMAGE: PCS
In Summary:
- Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua dismisses claims of leaving the government, addresses impeachment rumors, and vows to stay in government.
- Gachagua emphasizes unity in the Mt Kenya region and calls for political leaders to focus on their duties.
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Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly affirmed his commitment to the Kenya Kwanza government, dismissing rumors of his departure and addressing alleged impeachment plans.
Speaking to residents in Kirinyaga during a presidential tour, Gachagua emphasized that he and President William Ruto have a five-year contract with Kenyans, which they intend to honor.
Gachagua highlighted the unity of the Mt Kenya region behind President Ruto and called for political leaders to cease making divisive remarks.
He questioned, “I have seen some people trying to start a debate that Mt Kenya people can’t leave the government. Is there need for such a debate? Isn’t this our government? Didn’t we wake up early to vote for it?”
The Deputy President asserted his role as the leader of Mt Kenya, stating, “The day you voted for the President, did you see my face there and you voted for both of us? If I haven’t said anything, who is that purporting to speak?”
He added, “Every homestead has a leader and that he’s the leader of the Mt Kenya region.”
Urging other politicians to focus on their duties, Gachagua declared, “The work of the presidency is mine and Ruto’s, and we are the ones to give directions and if we have not said anything, let others shut up.”
He emphasized that he had not complained about any issues within the government, saying, “I haven’t seen any reason to complain so let those making noise do so in their WhatsApp groups.”
Addressing the alleged impeachment plot in a media interview with vernacular stations on Sunday night at his Karen residence, Gachagua acknowledged hearing rumors but attributed them to his advocacy for avocado farmers and his efforts to secure government positions for locals.
He advised, “Don’t bring politics of confusion. As a region, we are fully behind Ruto and as a Deputy President, I work well with him. Leaders should focus on the work they were elected to do.”
The Deputy President’s statements come amid political maneuvering, including the recent addition of opposition members to the Cabinet and allegations of some MPs meeting to discuss Gachagua’s impeachment.
He maintains that the Kenya Kwanza administration remains strong, stating, “Let the President and his deputy play the lead as they should.”