WAIKENDA: Let’s respect DP Gachagua

In a recent gathering, leaders predominantly from Murang'a convened to endorse one of their own as a potential successor to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in the 2027 election. This move was accompanied by passionate rhetoric extolling the virtues of their candidate.

However, it prompts a critical examination of the timing and focus of our political leaders. A casual observer might be forgiven for thinking that the election is just around the corner or that the office of the Deputy President is vacant.

In reality, there are more pressing matters that our leaders should be addressing, issues that directly impact the lives of Kenyans. Why the urgency in discussing the next deputy president one year after the last election?

It is just over a year since the last election, and yet discussions about the next deputy president are gaining momentum. This begs the question: shouldn't our leaders be directing their energy towards addressing pressing issues affecting the lives of Kenyans, rather than prematurely positioning themselves for the next political contest?

Kenya's history has witnessed a complex relationship between its citizens and deputy presidents. A striking example is President Daniel Moi, who faced intense opposition during his vice presidency under Jomo Kenyatta's leadership.

The notable resistance, particularly from the Kiambu region, showcased the intensity of political battles that often accompany the ascension to the presidency. Similarly, the current President, William Ruto, was not immune to open opposition from the government machinery and the so-called 'system'.

Despite these challenges, he emerged victorious in the last election, underscoring the unpredictable nature of Kenyan politics. This raises the pertinent question: who benefits from sowing a superficial rift within Mt Kenya?

Deputy President Rigathi, as the senior-most leader from the region and next in line to lead both the region and the nation, holds a crucial position. The ongoing speculations regarding his potential replacement only serve to divert attention from the real issues demanding immediate attention.

It is time for our leaders to prioritise unity, development and the well-being of the people over premature political manoeuvring.

Attempting to prematurely remove Rigathi can be likened to the proverbial hyena thinking that a swinging hand will eventually fall off. Those anticipating his removal are likely to be disappointed.

Rigathi remains a significant and influential figure in Kenyan politics, and any attempt to undermine him risks further polarisation and instability.

He could be seen by some as a controversial figure, but there is no doubt that Rigathi is a powerful and influential politician in the Mt Kenya region. Being Ruto’s running mate was key to bringing in almost 3 million votes from the region to Kenya Kwanza.

The question of who is behind the creation of a superficial rift within Mt Kenya demands careful consideration. Unity within this region is paramount for national stability and progress. Divisions and infighting only serve to weaken the political fabric and hinder the collective pursuit of development and prosperity.

Kenyan leaders need to rise above personal ambitions and prioritise the greater good. Instead of engaging in premature political posturing, leaders should unite to address the real challenges facing Mt Kenya and the nation as a whole. Kenyans deserve leaders who focus on tangible solutions rather than engaging in divisive tactics.

Let us emphasise the importance of respecting Rigathi's position and allowing the political landscape to evolve organically. As a nation, we must collectively work towards unity and national development, steering clear of unnecessary divisions.

Kenyan leaders have a responsibility to demonstrate statesmanship by putting the interests of the people first. Only through such collective efforts can we build a resilient and prosperous nation for generations to come.

The DP is also a strong advocate of the interests of Mt Kenya. He has promised to bring development and prosperity to the region, and he has pledged to fight for the rights of the people of Central.

Rigathi is rightfully the Mt Kenya kingpin not only because he is a close ally of the President but also because he plays a key role in the Kenya Kwanza administration. Therefore, when he speaks, he is speaking for the millions of Mt Kenya voters who supported this government from election to inception.