In a fiery address at Kameme radio station, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua issued a blistering critique of President William Ruto, signaling a growing rift in the once-unified camp that propelled Ruto to the presidency.
Gachagua, who has emerged as a vocal critic since his impeachment, took aim at the looming government reshuffle poised to elevate principal secretaries and other state officers believed to be allies of the Orange Democratic Movement and its leader Raila Odinga.
The implications of this potential shift could reverberate throughout the political landscape of Mount Kenya, upending the delicate balance of power within the region.
In his remarks, Gachagua expressed fierce opposition to the prospective appointments.
“It is alarming that the President would consider replacing those who stood by him with individuals who have, for years, actively opposed his leadership and the aspirations of Kenyans.” This statement encapsulates the palpable tension flowing from Mount Kenya as Gachagua positions himself as a champion for the local political establishment against perceived betrayal by Ruto.
The backdrop of this dispute lies in the intricacies of the Ruto-Raila alliance—an unexpected political marriage that has come with concessions and compromises. Gachagua has characterized this partnership as a “bare-knuckle deal,” accusing Ruto of turning his back on the constituents who supported him during his ascent.
“We fought hard to deliver this government; now it seems the sacrifices made are being tossed aside for political expediency,” he lamented, underscoring a growing sentiment of disillusionment within segments of Mount Kenya.
As Ruto moves towards reshuffling his government, he risks alienating a key support base that has historically been crucial to his political capital. The anticipation of ODM-affiliated appointments has raised alarm bells among Gachagua and his supporters, with the former Deputy President warning, “This is not just a reshuffle; this is a betrayal of our people’s trust and hopes. If the President goes ahead, he will certainly reap what he sows.”
The gravity of this assertion speaks volumes about the fragility of the coalition that powered Ruto’s electoral success.
Gachagua’s criticisms extend beyond mere political positioning; he has also brought attention to issues of corruption and unfulfilled promises that continue to plague the administration.
“Our people are hungry for true change and developmental governance, not empty words or deals made in backrooms that only serve those in power,” he asserted. His comments resonate with many Kenyans who have been left disillusioned by the slow pace of promised reforms and the pervasive corruption that continues to undermine public trust.
The dynamics within Mount Kenya post-election have been contentious as various factions grapple for influence. While President Ruto seeks to secure his position through strategic alliances, Gachagua appears determined to galvanize the region’s political heavyweights to reclaim their narrative.
“We must remind the President that power lies with the people, and we will not stand idly by and watch our future dictated by the whims of those who see us as merely pawns on their chessboard,” he declared, rallying support from local leaders and constituents.
Additionally, Gachagua’s escalated rhetoric reflects not only a strategic maneuver but also a grassroots campaign to resonate with an electorate wary of the political games being played.
In recent months, he has increasingly taken to public forums to recharge his political capital, even venturing into areas long regarded as opposition strongholds, emphasizing a call for unity and accountability among Kenyans.
“It is time for us to rise and demand our rights; the political elite cannot continue to toy with our future,” Gachagua proclaimed, echoing a sentiment that could embolden his base as the dust from the presidential election settles.
In light of Gachagua’s assertive stance, the impending reshuffle serves as a crucial juncture for Ruto’s administration. The potential of appointing ODM allies—decisions that seem to evolve from a political calculus concerned more with alliances and less with the electorate—presents a double-edged sword. Should these appointments go ahead, they risk fracturing an already teetering political alliance and igniting further dissent from leaders like Gachagua who feel excluded and betrayed.
As this narrative unfolds, Ruto’s response will be pivotal. Will he seek to reaffirm his ties with Mount Kenya leadership, of which Gachagua is a significant voice, or will he double down on his deal with Raila Odinga? The stakes are high, as Gachagua stands poised to exploit any fissures in Ruto’s strategy.
In essence, Gachagua’s confrontational rhetoric marks a significant shift that could redefine the political landscape in Kenya. As he galvanizes local support against a backdrop of discontent, the dynamics of loyalty and betrayal could trigger a re-examination of alliances as both Ruto and Gachagua navigate the complex terrain of Kenyan politics in the months ahead.
