The Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, has openly criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of using divisive ethnic politics to advance his own political ambitions.
Speaking at a fundraising event held at Machongo PAG Secondary School in Bomachoge Chache constituency, Wetang’ula condemned Gachagua’s campaign approach, which he described as one that seeks to divide Kenyans along tribal lines.
“You cannot become president of this country by rotating around one mountain,” Wetang’ula said, referring to what many see as Gachagua’s narrow regional focus.
He also challenged the absence of leaders from other regions, such as Mt Elgon, in the national political conversation.
“Political competition is healthy and inevitable, but it must not be conducted through insults, tribal balkanisation, or unproductive political theatrics,” Wetang’ula stressed.
He called on both government and opposition leaders to promote national unity and avoid rhetoric that undermines social cohesion.
“There is no superior community in Kenya. Tribal politics threaten our collective peace and progress,” he added, urging Gachagua to reconsider his political methods.
Wetang’ula also condemned what he described as ongoing verbal attacks against President William Ruto and his allies from some opposition factions, calling such behavior “unwarranted and counterproductive.”
“Kenyans want issue-based politics, not name-calling. You don’t have to bring others down to stand tall,” he said.
He praised former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for showing statesmanship by putting the country’s interests ahead of personal ambition, pointing to Raila’s recent cooperation with President Ruto as an example of national unity.
“Who would have thought Raila would work with Ruto? After the elections, he chose country over self and that gave rise to the inclusive government we now have,” Wetang’ula noted.
Wetang’ula was joined by several Members of Parliament, including Majority Chief Whip Silvanus Osoro, who supported the speaker’s views.
Osoro, together with Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie, accused Gachagua of engaging in divisive politics and urged him to show respect for the President.
Osoro also dismissed Gachagua’s allies as disgruntled individuals frustrated over being excluded from government.
The leaders were attending a Harambee event supporting 40 churches in the constituency.
Other leaders present included Alpha Miruka (host MP), Zaheer Jhanda (Nyaribari Chache), Kitayama Marwa (Kuria East), Dorice Aburi (Women’s representative Kisii), Jerusha Momanyi (Women’s representative Nyamira), and Irene Mayaka (nominated senator).
