Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s political standing in the Central Kenya region faces mounting challenges as an increasing number of local leaders continue to distance themselves from him. The latest setback for the Deputy President comes from a faction of Meru leaders who have publicly rejected his calls for a more localized approach to governance and resource allocation.
At a press conference held at Parliament buildings on Tuesday, a group of Meru legislators expressed their dissent with DP Gachagua’s “one man, one shilling, one vote” initiative. This initiative, which the Deputy President has championed, seeks to reallocate national resources based on population density. However, critics argue that it might marginalize less densely populated regions and exacerbate existing inequalities.
Igembe South MP Paul Mwirigi, who spearheaded the opposition among Meru leaders, voiced strong concerns over the potential implications of Gachagua’s proposal. “If we say other areas should not get development, we will be wrong,” Mwirigi asserted, emphasizing the need for equitable development across all regions, irrespective of their population sizes.
Mwirigi and his colleagues also took issue with Gachagua’s suggestion that Members of Parliament should be permanently based in their constituencies. The Deputy President’s argument is that MPs would be more effective and responsive if they spent more time within their local communities. However, the Meru leaders contended that this approach could hinder their ability to engage in broader legislative duties and national affairs that often require their presence in Nairobi.
The discontent among Meru leaders reflects a broader pattern of growing dissatisfaction with DP Gachagua’s leadership within the Central Kenya bloc. As his political influence appears to wane, Gachagua is grappling with internal fractures within his support base. The division among Central Kenya leaders could potentially weaken the region’s political cohesion, affecting its bargaining power on the national stage.
Observers note that Gachagua’s political strategy, which heavily leans on regional populism, may be losing its appeal as leaders and constituents alike call for a more inclusive and balanced approach to governance. The rejection of his proposals by Meru leaders signifies a crucial challenge to his authority and could prompt a reevaluation of his tactics moving forward.
As the political landscape in Central Kenya continues to evolve, the coming months will be critical for DP Gachagua. His ability to address the concerns of dissenting leaders and unify his supporters will be essential for maintaining his political relevance and influence. For now, the Deputy President must navigate the intricate dynamics of regional politics, balancing local interests with the broader national agenda.
