By Swaleh
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly recognized retired President Uhuru Kenyatta as the undisputed kingpin of the Mt Kenya region, marking a significant shift in the region’s political landscape. In a candid admission, Gachagua expressed regret for the harsh treatment meted out to Uhuru during the heated 2022 election campaigns, where members of the Kenya Kwanza faction criticized him for endorsing Raila Odinga.
Gachagua revealed that he has since reached out to Uhuru to seek forgiveness, acknowledging the unfairness of their past actions. “The mountain people and I feel very bad that we punished, demeaned, and embarrassed Uhuru for advocating that Raila is a good man. It was very brutal, and it has come to our knowledge that it was unfair,” he stated.
The deputy president reflected on how their animosity stemmed from Uhuru’s recommendation to the Mt Kenya electorate to consider Raila as a presidential candidate. Gachagua admitted that their aggressive stance was out of line and expressed his realization that their approach was detrimental to the region’s unity.
He noted that the recent collaboration between President William Ruto and Raila has influenced the Mt Kenya community’s perspective. “We have no problem with Raila Odinga. A Mt Kenya king does not pronounce himself twice on a matter. Our son Uhuru Kenyatta has pronounced himself on this matter; therefore, that pronouncement carries the day,” Gachagua emphasized.
By aligning with both Uhuru and Ruto’s newfound partnership with Raila, Gachagua stated that the Mt Kenya region is now prepared to move past any previous grievances. This marks a notable pivot in local politics, suggesting a potential thaw in relations with the ODM leader and an openness to new political alliances.
Gachagua’s statements reflect a broader attempt to unify the region and reinforce Uhuru’s status as a key leader. The deputy president’s willingness to apologize and seek reconciliation may pave the way for a more collaborative political atmosphere in Mt Kenya, as the community seeks to navigate the evolving dynamics of Kenyan politics.
