Gachagua: Some people are unhappy to see the Mount Kenya unite
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has expressed his surprise and disappointment at those who criticise his efforts to reach out to former President Uhuru Kenyatta in pursuit of unity within the Mount Kenya community.
Gachagua emphasised that his actions are a response to the call from the Mount Kenya community, including religious leaders and business figures, who have urged him to play a leading role in bringing the community together.
Speaking in Tigania, Meru County, on Saturday, October 7, 2023, Gachagua stated, “They have told me: Because you are the most senior leader from Mount Kenya in the government, lead us in uniting our community. We want unity and cohesion.”
This follows Gachagua’s statement on Friday, October 6, regarding former President Uhuru Kenyatta, with whom he has had significant political differences. Gachagua has previously raised concerns about being undermined and mistreated by Kenyatta’s government, and he has been critical of the state of the Kenyan economy.
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However, Gachagua’s recent actions appear to signal a change in direction as he has expressed his intention to reach out to Kenyatta and seek reconciliation for the unity of the Mount Kenya Community.
“I wonder when we say we want to unite as a community, our critics fill the media with baseless gossip and rumours…I will not stop uniting our region (Mount Kenya). It’s a responsibility given to me by the people who voted for us,” the Deputy President asserted.
He went on to question why the announcement of unity in Mount Kenya becomes a contentious issue, citing the example of the Western Kenya community, which recently came together under its leaders to unite its people.
According to Gachagua, his efforts to engage with Kenyatta and other opposition leaders are aimed at involving the Mount Kenya Community in President Ruto’s government to ensure development in the region.
However, these efforts have faced criticism, with some suggesting that Gachagua should focus on national politics, considering his position as the second most prominent and senior leader in the country.