Mt. Kenya Stands By Ruto: Gachagua Calls for Time and Legacy Preservation Amid Political Change

In a recent speech, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua extended a reconciliatory hand towards President William Ruto, affirming that the people of Mt. Kenya have no grievances against him. This statement comes as a significant development following Gachagua’s impeachment and removal from office. Speaking at a funeral in Gichugu, Kirinyaga County, Gachagua called for patience, urging the residents to grant Ruto the remaining years of his term to fulfill the promises he made during the campaign period. His speech, however, was more than just a gesture of goodwill toward Ruto; it was also a heartfelt appeal for the continuation of reforms and the preservation of his legacy, particularly in the fight against alcoholism and in championing coffee sector reforms.

This article delves into Gachagua’s statement, exploring the context behind it and the implications for Mt. Kenya politics and the broader national landscape.

Understanding Gachagua’s Message to Mt. Kenya and the President

In his speech, Gachagua sought to dispel any perceptions of discord between himself and the president. “We have no problem with the President,” he said in his vernacular Kikuyu, a language laden with cultural and emotional resonance for the residents of Mt. Kenya. “We want to give him time for the remaining three years to fulfill the promises he made.”

By framing his words in this way, Gachagua is extending a gesture of patience and restraint, rallying the residents of Mt. Kenya to support Ruto’s administration, despite recent political turbulence. He emphasized the need for trust and unity, appealing to the people to remember the commitments made during the campaign and to give Ruto a fair opportunity to realize them.

Gachagua’s statement serves to neutralize the notion of a political rift, signaling that he, and by extension, the Mt. Kenya community, are more interested in the long-term outcomes for their region than in short-term conflicts.

The Importance of Coffee Sector Reforms

A central theme in Gachagua’s address was his deep involvement in reforming the coffee sector, a critical industry in Mt. Kenya’s economy. Gachagua highlighted the progress of the Coffee Bill, 2023, currently awaiting legislative approval. The bill aims to introduce measures that will protect coffee farmers, enhance profits, and ensure fair pricing for small-scale farmers who have struggled under exploitative practices for years.

Gachagua’s commitment to coffee reforms speaks to his broader vision for Mt. Kenya, which is rooted in economic empowerment and sustainability. The former DP urged legislators to apply the same “speed and efficiency” that was used in his impeachment to push forward the Coffee Bill, calling for a swift legislative process that would allow the president to sign it into law without delay. In doing so, Gachagua underscored the bill’s significance, portraying it as a symbol of progress for Mt. Kenya farmers.

The Coffee Bill, which was part of Gachagua’s campaign promises, represents his dedication to improving the livelihoods of Mt. Kenya’s rural community. By urging the government to expedite its passage, he implicitly reminded the region’s leaders and residents that even as he exits the political stage, his work for the people should endure.

Preserving the Fight Against Illicit Brews and Alcoholism

Another critical issue Gachagua addressed was the problem of alcoholism and drug abuse in Mt. Kenya, a cause he had championed fervently as deputy president. For years, he fought against the spread of illicit brews, seeing it as a crisis that was eroding the foundations of Mt. Kenya’s community. According to Gachagua, the resurgence of alcoholism coincided with his political struggles and ultimate removal, suggesting that his absence in government had allowed the issue to resurface.

Gachagua’s commitment to this cause has been a deeply personal mission. He painted a vivid picture of his efforts, stating that he worked tirelessly for two years to curb alcoholism, driven by a sense of duty to protect the youth from its ravages. Now, Gachagua worries that without his leadership, Mt. Kenya’s youth are once again at risk, and he called on current leaders to maintain the momentum of his anti-alcoholism campaign.

Gachagua’s appeal speaks to the heart of a complex social issue in Mt. Kenya. Illicit brews and drug abuse have become a major challenge, devastating many families and creating significant social and economic burdens. By addressing it openly, Gachagua reaffirms his role as a community advocate, even as he exits formal political power. He highlighted the enduring value of his contributions and called on local leaders to continue his work, stating that failing to do so would harm the youth more than it would harm him.

Impeachment and Historical Implications

Gachagua’s impeachment marks a historical first in Kenya’s politics: the removal of a deputy president through legislative proceedings. The process was controversial, with the National Assembly moving quickly to approve his ouster, followed by the Senate’s support on five of the eleven charges he faced. Gachagua’s speech reflects both acceptance of the outcome and a subtle critique of the process, where he points out the efficiency with which the proceedings unfolded. By invoking the swiftness of his impeachment in relation to the Coffee Bill, he underscores the urgency of legislative work that benefits the people directly.

The impeachment process, while challenging for Gachagua, has reshaped the political landscape and has implications for future office holders. His impeachment sets a precedent for accountability, reminding leaders that they are not above scrutiny and that political stability requires transparency and adherence to the law.

The Road Ahead: Mt. Kenya’s Political Landscape and Legacy of Reform

As Mt. Kenya prepares for the next three years of Ruto’s presidency, Gachagua’s speech acts as a call for cohesion and forward-looking patience. His appeal for patience is not just a call to support the president but also a call for the people of Mt. Kenya to remain steadfast in their quest for development and reform.

Gachagua’s words also point to a complex political environment, where alliances and rivalries can shift quickly. Despite his removal, Gachagua remains a respected figure in Mt. Kenya, admired for his commitment to economic empowerment and social reform. His efforts in the coffee sector and his dedication to curbing alcoholism speak to his vision for a Mt. Kenya that is economically vibrant and socially resilient.

Whether the current administration can carry forward Gachagua’s legacy remains to be seen, but his message is clear: Mt. Kenya’s needs transcend individual leaders. His call to action encourages residents and political leaders alike to prioritize meaningful change over political vendettas. By rallying support for the Coffee Bill and calling for continued efforts to combat alcoholism, Gachagua has laid down a marker for the kind of legacy he hopes will define his political career.

Conclusion

Gachagua’s recent remarks reveal a leader who, despite political setbacks, remains committed to the people of Mt. Kenya. His message to give Ruto time to fulfill his promises shows a desire for unity and progress, while his call for the passage of the Coffee Bill and the continuation of anti-alcohol efforts underscores his dedication to economic and social reform.

Gachagua’s political journey, marked by both achievements and challenges, serves as a reminder that effective leadership is about more than holding office it is about leaving a lasting impact. His call for patience and his focus on long-term reforms resonate deeply with the Mt. Kenya community, setting a tone for a future where the region’s interests remain at the forefront, irrespective of who holds power.

As Gachagua steps back from the national stage, his legacy endures in the form of the causes he championed. The true measure of his impact will be seen in the years to come, as Mt. Kenya’s residents and leaders work together to build a brighter future grounded in the ideals of unity, resilience, and sustainable growth.