Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has reiterated his call for reconciliation with former President Uhuru Kenyatta following the intense political campaigns of 2022. Speaking at a roadside rally on Friday, May 31, Gachagua acknowledged the mistakes made by himself and his supporters in Mt Kenya, who had launched a vigorous attack against Uhuru while pledging their loyalty to President William Ruto.
Gachagua hinted that unidentified individuals had misled the Mt Kenya electorate into opposing Uhuru. He emphasized the importance of unity, asking for forgiveness for their past actions and vowing never to turn against their leader again.
"Never again should we go against our kingpin, our own son. We were misled, we attacked and shouted down President Uhuru Kenyatta. I asked for forgiveness, did you forgive me? Never again will we attack our leader," Gachagua asserted.
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He expressed concern over the internal strife within Mt Kenya, urging his fellow residents to embrace unity and mutual respect. "Let us love each other. Other communities do not fight or hate one another. But there is always war here in our mountain. There is no day we will ever come against our kingpin like that. Tell our young people not to accept to be used to fight our Kingpin," he stated.
This appeal comes amidst infighting within the ruling UDA party, where divisions have become increasingly apparent. Some high-ranking party members have turned against Gachagua, prompting him to seek support from his home region.
Gachagua's calls for Mt Kenya unity have been met with resistance from leaders within the Kenya Kwanza faction. He has consistently argued that Uhuru's influence would be crucial in uniting the region for future political endeavors.
In addition to reaching out to Uhuru, Gachagua extended a gesture of reconciliation to other Azimio leaders, including Narc Kenya's Martha Karua and Jubilee Party's Jeremiah Kioni.
Despite Gachagua's appeals, former President Uhuru Kenyatta has remained silent and distanced from active politics, focusing on his roles as an election observer and mediator in the Eastern DRC conflicts.
Previously, Gachagua had been a vocal critic of Uhuru, accusing him of persecution before the 2022 elections and blaming him for mismanaging the country and damaging the economy.
