Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on government leaders to respect the views of citizens and refrain from lecturing them when they express concerns about the state of the country. Speaking during a service at the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) in Mwiki, Kasarani, Gachagua underscored the importance of listening to Kenyans, who he referred to as the employers of government officials.
“Why Are You Annoyed?”
Gachagua emphasized that leaders should not react angrily when citizens highlight issues such as the struggling economy, social challenges, or controversial government policies. He urged the government to focus on aligning its actions with the needs and voices of the public instead of dismissing or criticizing them.
“Why are you annoyed? Don’t get annoyed when you are told things are not working. If your boss tells you things are not okay, you don’t get annoyed,” Gachagua stated, reiterating the role of leaders as servants of the people.
His comments come in response to a growing perception that certain government officials, including President William Ruto, have been defensive when criticized. Recently, President Ruto and Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho called on Kenyans to exercise patriotism by supporting government initiatives and refraining from what they described as unconstructive criticism.
Joho, during a forum in Kilifi, highlighted how negative perceptions, largely shaped by social media, were hindering efforts to market Kenya internationally. “Let us be responsible; this is our country. We cannot have another Kenya. One year wasted is far too long for the future generation,” Joho said.
A Rebuttal Rooted in Representation
In a sharp rejoinder, Gachagua pointed out that leaders should remember their role as representatives of the people. He asserted that it is the government’s duty to listen to criticism and adjust its priorities to meet the needs of Kenyans.
“The voice of the people is supreme, and government officials must respect it. If Kenyans say things are not okay, stop lecturing them. They are the ones who employed you,” he noted.
Championing the Church as a Voice of Truth
Gachagua also defended the role of the church, emphasizing that religious leaders are deeply connected with grassroots communities and often encounter public grievances firsthand.
“The voice of the church is the voice of God,” he said, adding that clergy members interact daily with ordinary citizens and understand their struggles.
He argued that dismissing concerns raised by religious leaders undermines the realities faced by the public. Citing specific examples, Gachagua pointed out that church leaders’ criticisms of the economic situation, the State Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) and State Housing Authority (SHA), and the government’s housing program are rooted in genuine public sentiment.
“If they say the economy is not okay, it is the truth. If they say SHIF and SHA have issues, that is the truth. If they say they don’t want the housing program, that is the truth. Let us stop censuring our religious leaders,” Gachagua asserted.
Leaders Must Embrace Accountability
The former DP’s remarks underscore the need for the government to maintain open lines of communication with citizens and take criticisms as opportunities for growth rather than as attacks.
His statements are a reminder that the Kenyan government must prioritize inclusivity and respect for public opinion to foster trust and unity. As Gachagua concluded, “It is not for leaders to lecture Kenyans but to listen, understand, and act in their best interests.”
In a political climate marked by economic challenges and contentious policy debates, Gachagua’s call for a more empathetic and responsive leadership resonates strongly with citizens seeking solutions, not reprimands.
