Allies of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have attributed his struggles within the government to what they believe are coordinated efforts to undermine his office. Meanwhile, a faction of Kenya Kwanza lawmakers, speaking in Kericho County, called for his removal, highlighting the growing division within the coalition. Both sides used their mother tongues during the day’s exchanges, further emphasizing the rift.
In Githunguri, Kiambu County, DP Gachagua sought support from Central Kenya voters, portraying them as his shield against what he described as political persecution. Addressing the crowd in his native language, he reminded them of their role in electing the government.
"You’re the ones who voted for us, aren’t you? Are you tired of me? Those claiming they are tired, who are they? I know that the President and I came here, and I asked you to vote for him. We were a team, and some of you voted because I was his running mate, representing your interests. Please, let us finish our term," Gachagua said.
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He appealed for public backing while addressing coffee farmers, arguing that only the people have the authority to remove him from office. "We can't lose our jobs midway through the term, and you hold the mandate. Have I done anything wrong? If so, let the President come here and tell you my faults, and you, the people, will decide," he added.
Gachagua’s allies did not hold back in criticizing the President, placing blame for the Deputy President's struggles on his shoulders.
"Mr. President, even if you don’t respect your deputy, at least respect the people of the mountain. They’re the ones who gave you that seat," said Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang'wa.
"Leave Rigathi alone. He was elected by the people, and they should be the ones to judge him after five years," added Maragua MP Mary Wamaua.
"Riggy G is the best Deputy President we can have. Let’s not be deceived. The President had an agreement with him, and we demand respect. Stop bothering Riggy G. If after five years he’s not wanted, let him be told," stated Starehe MP Amos Mwago.
Meanwhile, in Sigowet-Soin Constituency, Kericho County, another group of Kenya Kwanza lawmakers labeled Gachagua a political liability and expressed their intent to remove him from office, underscoring the deepening cracks within the presidency. Vernacular languages were used throughout, further exposing the widening divide.
"If it's no longer workable, and we're constantly lecturing the President, then release this guy [Gachagua] from his job," said Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot.
"Yesterday, you heard the CS name the people behind the Gen Z protests, and since he sharpened his knife to take us down, we've sharpened ours too," added Belgut MP Nelson Koech.
These remarks revealed the growing tension between the President and his Deputy, reflecting Kenya’s political landscape, where political alliances often have a limited shelf life. This could have serious consequences for the delivery of the PLAN manifesto the duo promised the Kenyan people.
