Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Aden Duale, has expressed his dissatisfaction. Duale termed Gachagua’s statements as “unfortunate, irresponsible, and inciting,” stressing that such remarks undermine the principles of good leadership and democracy.
The controversy began during a church service in Naivasha, where Gachagua claimed that after his removal from office, the government had deliberately allowed the sale and distribution of illicit alcohol in the Mt. Kenya region. According to Gachagua, relevant government officials were instructed to permit the production, sale, and consumption of this harmful substance, a claim that immediately sparked backlash from both political figures and government officials.
Duale, who is a prominent political figure in Kenya, took to social media to address Gachagua’s comments. He emphasized that the former Deputy President’s remarks were not only reckless but could also incite division and undermine the trust that Kenyans place in their leaders. “Hon. Gachagua, you were once the Deputy President; this statement is unfortunate, irresponsible, incitement, and reckless. History will judge you. Don’t lower the bar for good leadership. Be a democrat,” Duale stated.
Duale’s criticism reflects a growing concern among Kenyan leaders about the potential repercussions of such inflammatory statements, especially coming from a figure who has held one of the highest offices in the land. His call for Gachagua to rise above ethnic politics underscores the importance of maintaining unity in leadership, particularly on matters as sensitive as the fight against illicit alcohol.
The accusations by Gachagua were also condemned by Raymond Omollo, the Interior Principal Secretary. Omollo described Gachagua’s claims as “selfish and politically motivated,” accusing him of trivializing a serious issue that affects countless families in Kenya. He pointed out that illicit alcohol has been a long-standing problem in the Mt. Kenya region, with tragic consequences, including the loss of lives due to poisoning from counterfeit alcohol.
Omollo went on to express his concerns over the lack of empathy in Gachagua’s statements, stating that such accusations do not only misrepresent the government’s stance but also disregard the families that have suffered due to alcohol-related tragedies. “It is therefore in bad faith and disingenuous of Mr. Gachagua to turn around, after serving this country at the highest office, and lay such ludicrous claims on such a sensitive matter that deeply impacts families and lives,” Omollo remarked.
The Interior PS also highlighted that if Gachagua genuinely sought to address the issue of illicit alcohol, he should take a more responsible approach. He suggested that Gachagua submit any evidence he has to the relevant investigative and enforcement agencies for proper action, rather than making unsubstantiated claims in public forums.
The issue of illicit alcohol has been a significant challenge in Kenya, especially in rural areas where the sale and consumption of counterfeit alcohol are rampant. The government, under various administrations, has implemented strict measures to combat this dangerous practice, including raids, public awareness campaigns, and partnerships with local authorities.
However, Gachagua’s remarks seem to suggest a political narrative that some in government view as divisive. His criticism of the government’s alleged complicity in the distribution of illicit alcohol appears to be a strategic move, possibly linked to his ongoing political rivalry with the current administration. Critics argue that Gachagua’s comments are a calculated effort to destabilize the government and gain political leverage among his supporters.
As the debate continues, the response from leaders like Duale and Omollo indicates that there is a concerted effort to ensure that the fight against illicit alcohol remains focused on saving lives and supporting families, rather than being clouded by political rhetoric. Moving forward, it is crucial that all leaders prioritize the well-being of Kenyans over political point-scoring, particularly on issues that have such serious social consequences.
