Kirinyaga residents protest after Gachagua attacks Governor Waiguru

Kirinyaga residents protesting in Kutus town over former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua's remarks on governor Waiguru./ALICE WAITHERA

Residents of Kirinyaga County have defended Governor Anne Waiguru following recent attacks by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

The residents who held street protests said Gachagua’s remarks were disrespectful, demeaning and reflective of a deep-seated contempt for women.

On Sunday, Gachagua, accompanied by other opposition leaders, claimed Waiguru is being used by President William Ruto and urged residents not to support her.

But the residents dismissed his sentiments, saying he has no moral authority to lecture other leaders over their association with the Head of State. 

One of the protesters, Beth Wanjiru, said the statement was in bad taste and amounted to an insult not just to the governor but to all women leaders across the country.

“This is not just an attack on Waiguru. It is an attack on every hardworking woman in leadership,” she said.

Wanjiru said Waiguru has earned her place through performance, integrity and vision, and her leadership track speaks for itself.

The residents described Waiguru as a trailblazer who has redefined women’s leadership in Kenya, citing her historic achievements as the only woman to be elected as a governor twice and her two-term tenure as the chairperson of the Council of Governors.

“You can’t diminish Waiguru's proven track record,” Joseph Mbucho said.

He cited the modern markets in major towns in Kirinyaga as part of her achievements.

The residents accused Gachagua of using divisive politics and personal attacks instead of focusing on constructive leadership. 

They said since his impeachment, Gachagua has been traversing the country campaigning against Ruto, coercing and bullying elected leaders to join his political party and attempting to consolidate an opposition force under his control.

“He has turned his energy to incitement and intimidation. He is imposing leaders on the people and fighting anyone who dares to hold an independent opinion. That is not leadership. It is political blackmail, " Mbucho said.

Mbucho questioned why Gachagua does not make similar statements against male leaders.

The protesters also dismissed Gachagua’s efforts to crown himself as the Mt Kenya political kingpin, saying leadership must be earned through service and respect.

“Leaders like Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta became regional kingpins because they were respected for their leadership, not because they forced people to follow them,” Jane Njeri said. 

"Even today, Uhuru remains the undisputed Mt Kenya leader. Gachagua should stop trying to impose himself down people’s throats. Loyalty cannot be demanded. It is earned.”

Rose Mavuti called for respect for women in politics, urging leaders to rise above personal vendettas and focus on national unity.

“If Gachagua truly wants to unite the region, he should start by respecting women leaders. You cannot demand partnership while insulting others. Leadership requires humility, not hostility,” Mavuti said.

Reports say Waiguru is planning to vie for a senator’s seat after the lapse of her two governor terms.