- The DP also called on leaders engaging in hooliganism to stop the acts and amicably solve differences.
- Leaders accompanying Gachagua welcomed the DP's decision to ask for forgiveness from former first Lady Mama Ngina for dragging her into dirty politics
Image: ODPS
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged leaders to forgive each other over political differences and focus on nation-building.
Gachagua said the country will realise better development if leaders resolve their political differences amicably and forgive each other.
Speaking on Tuesday at the burial service of Mama Dorcas Wangari Muhihu, the mother of Priesthood Church Bishop JJ Gitahi at Kaimbaga, Ol Kalou in Nyandarua County, the DP said he had already shown the way by pardoning those who wronged him and asked for their forgiveness.
"Let's forgive and embrace each other and forge forward as a united nation. I have forgiven those who may have offended me and also sought forgiveness from those I may have hurt through harsh words. Those were matters of politics and we have already moved forward from that," said the DP.
The DP also called on leaders engaging in hooliganism to stop the acts and amicably solve differences.
"This behaviour of violent politics; of throwing stones at opponents is backward and unacceptable. It is retrogressive to engage in violent acts to attempt to solve issues. We want people to resolve their differences peacefully," urged Gachagua.
He praised Gitahi for being a true friend to President William Ruto and him saying he welcomed and embraced them when they were disowned by everyone before the last elections.
"During our difficult years, many friends ran away from us; our business partners disowned us, and many churches disowned us. We were treated like people with leprosy but Bishop JJ welcomed us. We will cherish his friendship forever," the DP said.
Leaders accompanying Gachagua welcomed the DP's decision to ask for forgiveness from former First Lady Mama Ngina for dragging her into dirty politics in the last electioneering period.
They said it showed great leadership and genuine interest in the good of the community.
"You are our leader in Mt Kenya. We don’t have another leader. Your efforts to unite us will not be in vain. As people of Nyandarua, we respect you as our leader and you have our full support. The fight against illicit brews has come at the right time. Our young men and women are now sober and asking for jobs instead of handouts," said Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha.
They said they will support the DP's efforts to unite the region and implement government programmes to improve the lives of the people.
"We support you wholly in your bid for Mt Kenya Unity. As young political leaders, we have resolved to support you, and follow your footsteps and advice," said Nyandarua Senator John Methu.
Roots Party Leader George Wajackoyah praised the Deputy President for his efforts to unite the Mt Kenya region and for promoting progressive politics.
Wajackoyah said other leaders across the country had a lot to learn from him.
"I am quite happy today to shake hands with the Deputy President for the first time. This is a respectable man, I have confirmed today. I'm inviting him to Mumias to meet my people of Wanga," said Wajackoyah.
EALA member Kanini Kega said what the DP has started is a welcome move to reconcile people and focus on a better nation.