Deputy President Kindiki Hits Back at Gachagua Over Alleged Political Incitement
A fresh political standoff has emerged between Kithure Kindiki and his predecessor Rigathi Gachagua, after the deputy president launched a sharp public criticism accusing the opposition leader of inciting division and engaging in confrontational politics.
Speaking on Sunday in Meru County, Kindiki delivered a strongly worded address shortly after attending the induction ceremony of Bishop David Mwiti, warning that political leaders visiting the region must maintain order and respect local communities.
Addressing residents and political leaders gathered at the event, Kindiki cautioned that Meru would not tolerate political agitation that could disrupt peace in the county.
“Visitors are welcome in Meru, but they must come with discipline… no chaos or trouble. If they cause unrest, we will deal with it seriously. The people of Meru are civilized; we do not tolerate disorder or noise,” Kindiki said.
The remarks were widely interpreted as a direct response to recent political tensions involving Gachagua and other opposition figures, who have accused the government of attempting to block their political activities in the region.
The dispute escalated earlier on Sunday after Gachagua and several of his allies were reportedly denied access to a church service at the Kaaga Methodist Church in Meru. The group later attended a separate and smaller service in Njotene, an incident that has further fueled accusations of political interference.
Opposition leaders have since condemned the development, with Kalonzo Musyoka accusing the government of intimidation and warning that legal action could be pursued against the deputy president over the matter.
However, Kindiki appeared unfazed by the criticism, instead turning his attention to Gachagua’s political record while in office.
“You must respect the people of Meru and its leaders. There is nothing you brought here in terms of development… you came with empty promises, deceiving people during your one term,” Kindiki stated.
The deputy president further alleged that Gachagua’s political conduct while serving in government undermined national development efforts and created unnecessary divisions within the administration.
“You, Rigathi, were just a district officer and served one term as an MP. When you were appointed Deputy President, you undermined the government by fighting the President and sabotaging development programmes. We will not allow anyone to destroy our country by inciting people,” Kindiki said.
The public exchange marks the latest chapter in an intensifying political rivalry that has increasingly played out in public rallies and regional gatherings.
According to the deputy president, critics who have recently intensified political attacks should instead account for their own track records while they held office.
“The difference between us and those walking around inciting people is like day and night. We have a solid plan… We dare them to present the projects they lobbied for Meru County, the Mount Kenya region, and Kenya at large when they were in office,” he said.
Political analysts say the confrontation reflects growing tensions within Kenya’s political landscape as leaders position themselves ahead of future electoral contests.
Despite the heated exchanges, government officials have reiterated calls for calm, urging political leaders to prioritize development and unity while engaging with communities across the country.
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Deputy President Kindiki Hits Back at Gachagua Over Alleged Political Incitement
