Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is actively seeking reconciliation with his long-standing adversary, former President Uhuru Kenyatta, following a reported falling out with certain politicians from the Mt. Kenya region.
In an interview on Inooro TV on Friday, October 6, Gachagua openly expressed his intention to engage in dialogue with Uhuru Kenyatta, aiming to foster unity within Mt. Kenya, especially with the 2027 General Election on the horizon.
Gachagua also shared that he has advised his supporters to refrain from criticizing the former head of state, who faced harsh criticism and backlash, including the intrusion into his family’s Northland City property, after declaring his support for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.
In his bid to establish himself as a prominent leader within the region, Gachagua emphasized the importance of unity and reconciliation, citing the need to mend the rifts and rivalries that emerged during the competition for Mt. Kenya’s votes.
Gachagua stated, “Mr. Kenyatta was advocating for Mr. Raila Odinga’s presidency, and he lost. We have now chosen to embrace him as our esteemed son and statesman, despite our past differences. As Mt. Kenya leaders, we have agreed not to engage in conflict with him, and I am planning to initiate discussions with him. I have instructed everyone to show him respect, and he, too, is making efforts to maintain peace.”
According to Gachagua, Uhuru Kenyatta’s previous involvement in politics could have potentially disrupted the government. He commended the former president for his recent decision to take a step back from active politics.
“I made it clear that no one should be attacked, and I had conversations with other leaders where I told them that Uhuru Kenyatta is still our son, even though we had disagreements. The elections are over, and former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who is now enjoying his retirement, deserves our respect. We have collectively decided not to speak negatively about him.”
Furthermore, Gachagua hinted at the possibility of a reconciliation, suggesting that a “handshake” could occur when the right moment arises.
“When the opportune time comes and hearts soften, we will engage in dialogue. As the proverb goes, two axes cannot stay in one basket without colliding.”
However, it should be noted that Uhuru Kenyatta has not officially confirmed whether he has indeed taken a break from politics, as asserted by Gachagua. Prior to his departure for the United Kingdom in July and August of this year, the former head of state had publicly stated that he would not be pressured into retiring from politics.
“I had thought that when I convene the National Delegates Conference (NDC), I would come and inform you that I have accomplished what I could, and it is time for you to select other leaders. However, some decided to perceive it as intimidation and force. Today, I tell them to find someone else to intimidate, not Uhuru Kenyatta,” he declared at a contentious National Delegates Conference at Ngong’ Racecourse in May 2023.
