Rigathi Gachagua’s brand of politics is not just outdated—it is dangerous. Over the last two years, Kenya has witnessed a worrying pattern in his rhetoric: a consistent drumbeat of ethnic exceptionalism wrapped in entitlement. He has reduced national leadership to a regional struggle, often presenting himself not as the Former Deputy President of the Republic, but as a tribal chieftain whose loyalty lies solely with “Murima” — the Mt. Kenya region.
Gachagua’s repeated claims that the government is a “shareholding company” where some tribes deserve more than others isn’t just reckless—it’s a direct assault on the spirit of national unity. Such thinking erodes the constitutional ideal of inclusive leadership and fosters resentment among communities who feel sidelined.
At a time when Kenya needs healing, unity, and forward-looking leadership, Gachagua has instead weaponized ethnic identity for personal gain. He has vilified leaders from other regions, undermined national institutions, and painted himself as a victim whenever challenged. His tribal-centric approach to politics is not only a relic of a painful past, but a threat to a cohesive future.
Moreover, his public utterances reek of contempt — not just for rival politicians, but for the Kenyan people. His dismissive tone, polarizing language, and inability to rise above petty ethnic lines show a man too small for the office he once held.
Kenya is bigger than any tribe, bigger than any region, and certainly bigger than Rigathi Gachagua. For the sake of national stability and generational progress, he must not be allowed anywhere near public office again. We cannot build a united country on the foundations of division, and Gachagua has proven, time and again, that he is incapable of being anything other than a tribal crusader in a nation that desperately needs statesmen.
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