Gachagua questioned why the president seems uncomfortable with him reaching out to fellow leaders from the Mount Kenya East region, whom he referred to as his “cousins.”
Speaking during a public event, Gachagua said, “Is it wrong to speak to my cousins? Since when did talking to family become a crime?”
His statement comes after rising tensions between him and President Ruto, especially after reports that Gachagua has been holding meetings with leaders from parts of the Mount Kenya region without the president’s blessing.
The former DP insisted that his actions are being misunderstood. He said he has every right to speak to other leaders, especially those from regions closely linked to his own by culture, history, and family ties.
Gachagua said such talks are not about creating divisions, but about unity and ensuring that the concerns of their people are heard.
“I’m a son of this region. I know their pain. I understand their needs. And I must listen to them, whether anyone likes it or not,” he added.
Gachagua also warned against using politics to create fear and silence leaders.
He said it was wrong for some people in government to act like they own others or to expect total obedience without question. “We must allow open discussion. Leadership is not slavery,” he said.
His remarks have sparked debate across the country. Some Kenyans support him, saying he is defending the rights of his community and leaders to speak freely.
Others believe his actions may be fueling divisions within the ruling coalition.
