Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua declared that Central Kenya has officially disengaged from President Ruto, pledging not to support his 2027 re-election. The region is also withdrawing from the UDA to form a new political party. Gachagua has warned local leaders backing Ruto that they will face consequences in the upcoming elections. He criticized the rising illicit activities and questioned Ruto’s recent policy changes as detrimental to the region.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced that Central Kenya has officially severed its political relationship with President William Ruto, expressing that the region will not support his re-election campaign in 2027. This decision follows feelings of betrayal associated with President Ruto’s actions, particularly his impeachment last year. In a televised interview, Gachagua stated, “From today, the people of Central Kenya have politically disengaged from President Ruto. We will not support him in 2027.”
Gachagua also indicated that the region is withdrawing from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), marking a definitive end to its alliance with the ruling coalition. He implied that the focus is shifting towards establishing a new political party that is expected to be unveiled in May. He remarked, “We are finished with UDA. Never again will we go to an election without our own political party.”
The Former Deputy President has cautioned other leaders from Mt. Kenya who continue to support President Ruto despite the alleged betrayal, asserting there will be repercussions in the next general elections. He warned that he intends to campaign against these leaders, stating, “This region will vote out all leaders who prioritize their own interests over the community.”
Gachagua emphasized that leaders who exploit the community for personal gain will not be able to attain leadership again. He remarked that he has been closely monitoring the actions of these leaders who continue to rally behind the President in light of perceived disrespect towards the region. He affirmed, “When the time comes, they will be dealt with accordingly.”
Furthermore, he addressed the issues of illicit brews and the rise of criminal groups in Central Kenya, which he perceives as a strategy to undermine the region. Gachagua criticized the government’s inaction regarding these issues, maintaining, “Let me be clear—no one can isolate our community. The real issue is not with Kenyans; it’s with President Ruto.”
He also disapproved of President Ruto’s recent decision to eliminate the long-standing vetting process for residents of border counties applying for national identity cards. Gachagua suggested that this change could potentially sideline the Mt. Kenya region by manipulating voter demographics, stating, “This is part of a larger plan to sideline the Mt. Kenya region by manipulating voter demographics.”
In summary, Gachagua’s announcement signals a notable political shift in Central Kenya, as the region distances itself from President Ruto and the UDA, citing feelings of betrayal. He has issued warnings to regional leaders who continue to support the President, promising to campaign against them in future elections. Additionally, he raises concerns about illegal activities and government actions that threaten the integrity of the Mt. Kenya region, exhibiting a clear intention to unite and advocate for local interests.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
