Gachagua Asks Ruto to Stop Complaining about Online Criticism, Insults: “It’s What You Started”
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged President William Ruto to stop lamenting over increasing online criticism. Speaking at the AIPCA Church in Dandora, Embakasi North, on Sunday, January 12, Gachagua delivered a sharp reminder to the president.
“All this insult, president, you are the one who brought it to Kenya,” he said. “You told us that former president Uhuru Kenyatta is a drunkard and that Azimio’s Raila Odinga is a witch. Now it’s you and your people who have taught our children to insult.”
A Reflection on Political Rhetoric
Gachagua attributed the rise in offensive social media discourse to remarks allegedly made by Ruto in the past. He argued that the president’s earlier language set the tone for today’s political insults.
The outspoken leader dismissed the uproar over the use of coffin imagery on social media, including depictions of the president lying in state.
A Dismissive Take on Coffin Imagery
Gachagua downplayed the seriousness of such imagery, viewing it as youthful creativity.
“And this issue of being depicted in a coffin, why are you so afraid of death?” Gachagua asked. “You will die one day. Even if you are shown in a coffin, does that mean you are dead? Death is a natural thing; it will come.”
He called for mutual respect, warning against harsh government responses like arrests or threats.
Freedom of Expression Under Fire
The comments come amid mounting concerns about the government’s handling of dissenting voices online. Social media platforms have increasingly become battlegrounds for political rhetoric, with critics accusing the administration of stifling free speech.
Gachagua argued that young people experimenting with technology should not be punished for expressing themselves. “These are just kids playing with their phones. Let us respect each other—it’s important,” he noted.
The Bigger Picture
As debates rage on about freedom of expression and political decorum, Gachagua’s remarks add fuel to the fire. His message underscores the need for introspection among leaders, urging them to set an example in promoting respectful dialogue.
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Gachagua Asks Ruto to Stop Complaining about Online Criticism, Insults: “It’s What You Started”
