Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticized President William Ruto for allegedly attempting to divide the Mt. Kenya region into East and West, a situation he equates with his impeachment. He voiced his commitment to regional unity during a funeral service while addressing concerns about political marginalization and recent abductions in the area. A call for vigilance among Mt. Kenya citizens was made, emphasizing the importance of scrutinizing leadership.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly criticized President William Ruto for allegedly attempting to divide the Mt. Kenya region. Gachagua, who faced impeachment in October 2024, believes that his opposition to Ruto’s proposed division—which aimed to categorize the area into East (Meru, Embu, and Tharaka Nithi) and West (Central Kenya)—was instrumental in his removal from office. Speaking at the funeral of Eric Mutugi, the son of former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti, Gachagua emphasized his commitment to maintaining the region’s unity to enhance its negotiating power for national resources.
Despite his recent political struggles, Gachagua reassured the residents of Mt. Kenya that they must remain vigilant and discerning in their support for leadership. He expressed his disdain for the members of Parliament from the region who backed his impeachment, suggesting they had been misled and might face consequences in the upcoming elections. Furthermore, he voiced significant concerns regarding the alleged abduction of Billy Munyiri Mwangi in Embu, urging the government to account for Mwangi, whether he is alive or deceased.
Echoing Gachagua’s sentiments, former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi lamented the marginalization of Mt. Kenya East regarding development and political representation. Tension heightened during the funeral service when mourners openly rejected condolences from President Ruto, leading Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi to communicate the messages directly to Kivuti’s family without reading them aloud. Anglican Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit, who officiated the service, called for prayers to halt the trend of abductions while also emphasizing the need for peace amidst the ongoing disappearances. Eric Mutugi, an Information Technology consultant, was laid to rest in Kanyuambora, survived by his wife and two children.
The political landscape in Kenya has been characterized by regional divisions, particularly within the Mt. Kenya region. The proposal to split the region into East and West has raised concerns among politicians and constituents alike, prompting pushback from figures like former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. His impeachment, which he attributes to his resistance against this division, reflects deeper issues of unity and representation within the region. Additionally, the troubling issue of abductions in the area has further fueled public outcry, impacting community trust in the government and its ability to ensure safety.
In summary, Rigathi Gachagua’s criticism of President Ruto underscores a significant political rift over the proposed division of the Mt. Kenya region. His commitment to resisting fragmentation and advocating for unity resonates with the local populace, especially amid concerns regarding political representation and public safety. The echoing sentiments from other political leaders highlight a collective call for a focus on development and community safety, especially in light of recent abductions.
Original Source: mwakilishi.com
