Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Defends Stance on One Man, One Vote, One Shilling Amid Tribalism Allegations

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua faced criticism for his support of the One Man, One Vote, One Shilling revenue-sharing formula, addressing accusations of tribalism at a Women and Youth Empowerment Funds drive in Samburu on Friday. Gachagua firmly asserted his constitutional right to freedom of expression, questioning why his stance drew tribalist labels while similar sentiments from former Prime Minister Raila Odinga did not.

Gachagua emphasized that differing opinions are natural and do not equate to tribalism. “So just because what I have said aligns with what the people from where I come prefer, you label me a tribalist,” he remarked. “And yesterday I saw the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga say the same thing I said; I did not hear people calling him a tribalist.”

The Deputy President called for open dialogue to foster understanding of the revenue-sharing formula’s objectives. “Everybody should be given a chance to express themselves. Let us have a conversation; we are all the same people of Kenya. Let us talk and bring the country together,” he urged.

Gachagua also highlighted that his role as Deputy President does not nullify his right to hold and express personal opinions. “The fact that I am the deputy president does not extinguish my right as a Kenyan and as per the constitution to have an opinion. But that opinion is not a command; it’s just an opinion,” he clarified.

This defense follows Raila Odinga’s recent endorsement of the One Man, One Vote, One Shilling formula. On June 6, Odinga advocated for constitutional amendments to ensure equitable fund distribution, emphasizing the need for both equality and equity. Speaking at Chungwa House during the presentation of the Limuru 3 resolutions, Odinga reaffirmed his support for the approach, which he had previously backed in the defunct Building Bridges Initiative (BBI).

“It’s logical for equity of resources. I already supported the proposal on the defunct BBI,” Odinga stated. “That’s why in BBI we talked for one man, one vote, and one shilling.”

The ongoing debate highlights the complexities of revenue allocation and the importance of inclusive discussions to achieve fair and just distribution of national resources. As leaders from different political spectrums express their views, the focus remains on fostering unity and understanding among all Kenyans.