The founding chairperson of the UDA party and current Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC) commissioner, Johnson Muthama, has urged former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to avoid making statements that could stir tension by referencing past electoral conflicts.
Speaking in Ngamba, Makueni County, Muthama expressed concern over recent remarks by Gachagua that touched on Kenya’s 2007/08 post-election violence.
According to Muthama, any attempt to remind Kenyans of the events that occurred nearly two decades ago is dangerous, especially at a time when most citizens have healed.
“I have nothing personal against him. He was my Deputy President, and I was a witness to the entire process that led to his selection as UDA's running mate,” he said.
Muthama cautioned that continued references to the violence might provoke unnecessary anxiety.
“But there is one thing I will not let pass. I am a true Kenyan who fears nothing. I will stand for the truth. Gachagua, never ever remind us about the 2007 incident. We should forget about what happened in the past and move forward,” Muthama said.
Gachagua has since stated that his remarks were meant to urge the electoral body to ensure a credible 2027 election. He insisted that his statement was based on historical facts and the controversial elections of 1992, 1997, and 2007.
“My statement regarding post-election violence was a precautionary one, not incitement. It is grounded in historical facts and past electoral experiences. We must have a free and fair election in 2027,” he said.
Muthama also addressed political camps approaching him for 2027 support, affirming that he joined President William Ruto to pursue unity, justice, and fairness, principles he holds dear.
He emphasised the importance of allowing democracy to flourish, as he condemned the chaos witnessed last week when Gachagua unveiled his new political outfit.
“Our country must nurture a mature democracy. I did not appreciate the events surrounding the launch of Gachagua’s party. Let Gachagua have his party," he said.
"He will compete with others in the political arena. Therefore, let’s respect his constitutional right to form a political party."
Muthama also criticised the current state of the opposition, suggesting that in the absence of ODM leader Raila Odinga, it has become ineffective.
“This current opposition gives Kenyans no hope. We must be careful with our words and avoid reckless statements. If you want to understand the devastation of violence, ask the Congolese. Let Gachagua criticise Ruto as much as he wants, but if he desires national leadership, he cannot keep referring to ‘my people," he said.
