‘I Have Defeated Those WhatsApp Leaders’ – DP Gachagua Declares Victory In Mount Kenya
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is declaring victory in his efforts to unite the politically volatile Mt Kenya region.
His most recent declaration, however, marks a shift in focus, as he focuses on uniting the Maa community.
Gachagua dismissed dissent, attributing it to a few legislators hiding behind WhatsApp groups.
The DP was speaking at the 25th Annual Interministries Union Conference, held at Inkinyie Primary and Junior School Grounds in Kajiado County.
Gachagua’s efforts to consolidate Mt Kenya’s political power have elicited mixed responses.
Despite claims that a group of Mt Kenya leaders, including a cabinet secretary and at least 20 MPs, are plotting his impeachment, Gachagua remains unconcerned.
A few leaders are trying to speak but they cannot face the people, they only speak in WhatsApp groups – Gachagua mocks dissenting Mt Kenya leaders pic.twitter.com/lBU3c6n6wz
— Kenyans.co.ke (@Kenyans) August 24, 2024
“A few leaders are speaking here and there, but none can dare speak in front of the public. They are only speaking in WhatsApp groups where it is safe,” he stated.
He insisted that the discontent was limited to private forums, away from the public eye.
“I am not stupid. How can I come and ask the Maa community to unite if my own backyard is not united?” he asked rhetorically.
The Deputy President’s confidence appears unshaken as he prepares to broaden his influence beyond his home base.
Gachagua, who claims ancestral ties to Kajiado, is planning a homecoming visit with a clear goal: to bring the Maa community together. His approach, however, does not lack self-awareness.
“As we prepare ahead of the 2027 elections, take note that the coming election will be very competitive,” he declared.
“You know I am that person who listens to the ground. Some serious decisions have already been made.”
Gachagua’s narrative of unity is not new, but his timing and wording are strategic.
Earlier this week, he issued a stern warning to Mt Kenya leaders accused of opposing regional interests, implying that the political consequences they could face in the 2027 general election.
At a wedding in Juja, Gachagua continued his unity campaign, urging Mt Kenya residents to prioritize collective development over premature succession politics.
He repeated this call at a funeral in Kiambu County, emphasizing the importance of unity of purpose.
“What I’m calling for is unity of purpose, and we should stop fighting each other,” he reiterated, urging leaders to concentrate on the pressing needs of the people.
Despite his public confidence, Gachagua’s position is not without risks.
His critics, including Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri, have been outspoken in their criticism, accusing the Deputy President of undermining President William Ruto.
A group of MPs held a strategic meeting in Eldoret with over 300 Kikuyu community representatives to discuss national unity and the region’s political future.
Kiunjuri’s message to Gachagua was clear: “We all need to support the President and the broad-based government because it has helped to bring all Kenyans on board.”
As Gachagua continues to advocate for regional and national unity, the conflict between his ambitions and the growing resistance within Mt Kenya could shape his political future.
It remains to be seen whether his efforts to expand his influence in the Maa community will be successful or met with resistance.
What is clear, however, is that Gachagua is not backing down from the challenge, even as the political landscape on Mt Kenya remains volatile.
‘I Have Defeated Those WhatsApp Leaders’ – DP Gachagua Declares Victory In Mount Kenya
