Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), has publicly called on President William Ruto to restrain his close aide Farouk Kibet, accusing him of making repeated verbal attacks against retired President Uhuru Kenyatta.
Speaking during a party event, Gachagua said it was inappropriate for Farouk to criticize Kenyatta, emphasizing that the former Head of State played a significant role in Ruto’s political journey.
He noted that Kenyatta selected Ruto as his running mate in both the 2013 and 2017 elections, enabling him to serve as Deputy President for a decade.
Call for Political Maturity
Gachagua acknowledged the widely reported fallout between Kenyatta and Ruto during their second term in office.
However, he argued that despite the political tensions, Kenyatta did not use state machinery or political intimidation to undermine his deputy—a move Gachagua described as a demonstration of political maturity and respect for constitutional governance.
He warned that continued attacks on the retired president risk reopening old political divisions and further straining relationships within the ruling coalition, particularly in the vote-rich Mount Kenya region where political loyalties remain contested.
Appeal for Respectful Engagement
The DCP leader urged President Ruto to show leadership by encouraging respectful political discourse among his allies.
According to Gachagua, Kenya’s stability depends on leaders promoting tolerance, accountability, and respect for past alliances—even when political alignments change.
His remarks come amid heightened political activity and shifting alliances, as leaders position themselves ahead of future electoral contests.
Tags
Politics