President Ruto and Dp Rigathi at state lorge Sagana
President William Ruto blocked a push by Kenya Kwanza MPs to debate Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua‘s conduct on Tuesday. The session was intended to discuss the Finance Bill, 2024.
Gachagua Represents Ruto Abroad
President William Ruto is received by his deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport after he returned to country from a four-day trip on March 30, 2023
President Ruto sent Gachagua to represent him during the swearing-in of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. This move diverted attention from the growing criticism of Gachagua.
Mounting Pressure on Gachagua
Gachagua faces pressure over his push for Mount Kenya unity and alleged attacks on critics. Some MPs wanted to address his behavior during the Kenya Kwanza Parliamentary Group (PG) meeting.
Call to Discuss the Deputy President
During the PG meeting at State House, Gachagua focused on the Finance Bill, 2024. Some MPs, however, wanted to discuss his “condescending behavior.”
MPs Voice Concerns
Several lawmakers expressed their desire to address Gachagua’s recent actions. They questioned his loyalty to President Ruto and raised concerns about his statements on Mount Kenya unity.
Questions of Loyalty
One MP highlighted recent remarks by Gachagua that seemed to contradict the President. The MP sought clarification on whether the government was united.
Allegations of Ethnic Animosity
Another MP criticized some leaders for causing ethnic tension through their statements. They questioned why lawmakers were being labeled with unfamiliar names.
President Ruto’s Response
President Ruto addressed the MPs, emphasizing that the meeting was to discuss the Finance Bill, 2024. He promised another forum to discuss other issues.
Ruto’s Confidence in Gachagua
Ruto’s intervention showed his support for Gachagua. He refused to entertain any debate about his deputy’s conduct, signaling confidence in his leadership.
Gachagua’s Accusations
Gachagua recently accused those close to the President of undermining him in the Mount Kenya region. He claimed his critics aimed to create discord.
Gachagua’s Defiance
Gachagua warned his critics to address Mount Kenya residents directly instead of criticizing him from other regions. He dared them to speak against his unity campaign in Mount Kenya.
Divisive Unity Campaign
Some Kenya Kwanza leaders, including Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro, criticized Gachagua’s unity campaign. They accused him of promoting division.
Call for Cooperation
Ichung’wah urged Gachagua to focus on his current role and deliver for the people of Kenya. He warned against sabotaging the government for personal gain.
Gachagua’s Defense
Gachagua defended his stance, claiming he speaks for the people. He asserted that his actions reflect the will of the people he represents.
Ruto’s Strategic Move
By sending Gachagua to South Africa, Ruto deflected immediate criticism. This move allowed the Finance Bill, 2024 discussion to proceed without distractions.
Future Discussions Promised
Ruto’s promise of a future forum to address other issues pacified some MPs. It bought time to manage the growing dissent within the party.
President Ruto’s strategic handling of the situation highlighted his political acumen. By deflecting criticism and focusing on the Finance Bill, he maintained control over the party’s agenda. Gachagua’s conduct remains a contentious issue, with future discussions anticipated. The tension within Kenya Kwanza underscores the delicate balance of political alliances and loyalty.
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