Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on political leaders to reduce the emphasis on the 2027 and 2032 elections and instead concentrate on implementing President William Ruto’s manifesto. Speaking in a joint media interview with vernacular stations from the Mt Kenya region on Sunday night, Gachagua emphasized the importance of focusing on development over politics.
“Kenyans want development, not politics or a show of opulence. The political leaders and public officials should focus on working for Kenyans so that the President can succeed in his development plan. Let us avoid the talk on 2027 and 2032 elections. Instead, the energy should be on discharging mandates of the current positions and offices they hold,” Gachagua urged.
Commitment to Development
Gachagua underscored his commitment to working closely with President Ruto, highlighting that their relationship is strong and aimed at transforming the country. He dismissed any rumors of discord between them, stating, “There exists no bad blood between President Ruto and I. We have a good relationship and as his principal assistant, he consults me on various issues, for instance, on the formation of the broad-based Government, before making the final decision. He has assigned me many other mandates such as Chairing and Coordinating Inter-Governmental relations between the National Government and County Governments, including Chairing the Inter-Governmental Budget and Economic Council (IBEC).”
Call for Unity and Focus
Gachagua’s appeal extends to public officials and political leaders, urging them to avoid early campaigning for the upcoming elections and instead prioritize serving the nation. “My duty is to serve Kenyans and execute the roles assigned to me by the President. On the formation of the broad-based Government, I supported him. The new (Cabinet) nominees, including those picked from the Opposition Party, are welcome so that we drive the country forward together,” he stated.
When questioned about the potential implications of including members from the Opposition in the government, Gachagua defended the President’s prerogative to choose his team. “The President has the prerogative and is free to hire the people he wishes to work with,” he affirmed.
Addressing Youth Protests
Addressing the recent youth protests, the Deputy President urged patience, assuring that the President is committed to addressing their concerns. “Let us give the President a chance to work for Kenyans and implement his manifesto. The President has already committed to listening to their grievances,” Gachagua said.
Advocacy for Fair Resource Allocation
Gachagua also spoke about the one-man-one-shilling mantra, advocating for equality and equity in the distribution of funds. “The formula of One-Man-One Shilling in resource allocation is good for all people, not only those in Mt Kenya counties. We are not saying that some regions should lose their share; we mean that there should be equity and fairness,” he explained. He welcomed the support of Opposition leader Raila Odinga for this proposal.
Agricultural Reforms
In line with the government’s focus on agriculture as a cornerstone for economic rebuilding, Gachagua promised attention to the grievances of miraa and muguka traders and farmers. “I am a supporter of agriculture, and our government led by the President is keen on reforms. Agriculture is key in our mission to rebuild the economy, and I will continue championing reforms to benefit farmers and traders,” he concluded.
The Deputy President’s message is clear: development should take precedence over political maneuvering, with all leaders and officials working collaboratively towards the common goal of national progress and prosperity.
