Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on leaders from the Mt. Kenya region to focus on development rather than engaging in high-octane politics. Speaking at the Centenary Celebrations of Our Lady of Sorrows Baricho Catholic Parish in Kirinyaga County, Gachagua emphasized the need for political leaders to concentrate on their responsibilities and deliver on their development agendas, noting that the next election is still three years away.
Gachagua’s message comes as political temperatures in the Mt. Kenya region have been rising, with various political camps jostling for influence and control. Addressing the faithful at Baricho Primary School grounds, Gachagua reminded the leaders that Kenyans are aware of political developments and will make informed decisions when the time comes to vote in the 2027 elections.
Call for Unity and Focus on Development
The Deputy President stressed the importance of focusing on development projects and urged leaders to leave divisive politics behind. “The elections ended, and the next election cycle is 2027. Those who were elected should do their job; when the time comes, aspirants will go to the people to seek support. Kenyans are intelligent people; they are aware of the political developments. They will make decisions at the ballot,” he stated.
He cautioned against the region becoming engulfed in political tensions, noting that other regions in the country are calm and focused on development. “Let us reduce high-octane politics in the Mt Kenya Region. The other regions are calm and not focusing on politics,” he added.
Gachagua’s message reflects his consistent appeal for calm and unity within the Mt. Kenya region, which has historically played a critical role in shaping the political landscape of Kenya. He encouraged leaders to work together, noting that a united front was crucial in achieving socio-economic transformation for the region and the country at large.
Strengthening the Partnership with the Church
The Deputy President also highlighted the importance of the partnership between the government and the church, praising the Catholic Church for its contributions to the country’s socio-economic development. “The Catholic Church has participated in socio-economic development. You are our partners of the government in the development agenda. We will continue working together,” he said.
Baricho Parish, established in 1923, has played a key role in evangelization and social development in the region. The Parish has established schools and hospitals and actively participated in addressing social ills over the years. The celebration of the Parish’s 100-year anniversary provided a platform for Gachagua to reiterate the significance of continued collaboration between the church and the government.
Leaders Echo Gachagua’s Sentiments
Several leaders who attended the event echoed Gachagua’s call for calm and focus on development. Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa lauded the Deputy President for his efforts to unite the region and the country, particularly in leading the fight against illicit brews and drug abuse. “DP Gachagua is our uniting factor, we are telling off those being used to split the country into political camps. We elected the Kenya Kwanza Administration willingly. The link between the people and the Executive is Parliament, and MPs should play their role without abdicating it to others,” he remarked.
Kirinyaga Senator Kamau Murango also stressed the importance of prioritizing development over politics. “It is time to work, not engage in political squabbles,” Murango stated, emphasizing that the region’s leaders would continue to support the Deputy President and ensure that he is respected as part of the Presidency.
The event, attended by various high-profile leaders including Cabinet Secretary Mercy Wanjau, Governor Anne Waiguru, and multiple Members of Parliament, marked a significant moment in reaffirming the commitment of the region’s leadership to the country’s development agenda.
Conclusion
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s call to tone down political activities in the Mt. Kenya region and focus on development highlights his intention to steer the region away from political conflicts and towards constructive socio-economic growth. His strong partnership with the Catholic Church underscores a shared vision for the country’s development, with both the government and religious institutions playing vital roles in the transformation process.
As the country moves toward the next election cycle in 2027, Gachagua’s message of unity and development will likely continue to resonate within the region as leaders navigate the political landscape and focus on delivering tangible results for their constituents.
