Deputy President Kithure Kindiki launched a scathing attack on his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua, on Sunday, accusing him of promoting incitement and divisive politics.
The remarks came in Meru County during the induction of Bishop David Mwiti at the Kaaga Synod of the Methodist Church.
Kindiki warned residents to reject pressure from opposition figures:
“Visitors are welcome in Meru, but they must come with discipline… no chaos or trouble. If they cause unrest, we will deal with it seriously. The people of Meru are civilized; we do not tolerate disorder or noise.”
Criticism of Gachagua’s Record
Kindiki criticized Gachagua for disrespecting current officials and failing to deliver meaningful results during his tenure.
He accused the former Deputy President of spending his term fighting the government and sabotaging development projects instead of focusing on growth:
“You must respect the people of Meru and its leaders. There is nothing you brought here in terms of development… you came with empty promises, deceiving people during your one term.”
The Deputy President emphasized that political visitors must respect Meru’s residents and leadership. His comments directly countered accusations from Gachagua and other opposition figures, who claimed Kindiki orchestrated a blockade to prevent their entry into the county.
Security forces reportedly denied Gachagua and his allies access to the Kaaga Methodist Church, forcing them to reroute to a smaller service at the East Africa Pentecostal Church in Njotene.
Kalonzo Musyoka responded by accusing the government of intimidation and pledged legal action against Kindiki over the blockade.
Kindiki’s Broader Message
Kindiki also highlighted Gachagua’s political history, warning him against inciting the public:
“You, Rigathi, were just a district officer and served one term as an MP. When you were appointed deputy president, you undermined the government by fighting the president and sabotaging development programs. We will not allow anyone to destroy our country by inciting people.”
The Deputy President contrasted his approach with that of his critics, pointing to the government’s comprehensive development strategy:
“The difference between us and those walking around inciting people is like day and night. We have a solid plan… We dare them to present the projects they lobbied for Meru County, the Mt. Kenya region, and Kenya at large when they were in office.”
Kindiki’s remarks underscore escalating political tensions in Mt. Kenya, as leaders from different factions continue to trade accusations while vying for influence in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
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