- MP Oscar Sudi rejects Rigathi Gachagua’s remarks on barring Kenya Kwanza leaders from Mt. Kenya.
- He insists the government does not need permission to engage with Mt. Kenya residents.
- Sudi argues that the region played a key role in Kenya Kwanza’s victory and deserves development.
- Gachagua had previously criticized leaders for political movements, but President Ruto supported national engagement.
Kapsaret MP Oscar Sudi has strongly opposed former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s recent call discouraging Kenya Kwanza leaders from visiting Mt. Kenya.
Speaking on Friday, March 28, 2025, Sudi made it clear that government officials do not require anyone’s approval to engage with the people of the region.
“As Kenya Kwanza, we will visit every part of this country and deliver development. Wamunyoro (Rigathi Gachagua) has said we should not go to Mt. Kenya, but we will be there next week,” Sudi stated.
He emphasized that Mt. Kenya’s overwhelming support played a major role in Kenya Kwanza’s rise to power, and the region deserved a fair share of government projects.
“If there is any group that significantly contributed to bringing this government to power, it is the people of Mt. Kenya. They must get the development they deserve,” he added.
“We Are Not Seeking Permission”
Sudi clarified that their upcoming visit was purely developmental, not political, dismissing claims that their presence in Mt. Kenya was aimed at stirring political tensions.
“We are coming to Mt. Kenya to work, not to campaign. And we are not asking for permission. These people played a key role in electing this government, and we must deliver for them,” he insisted.
Gachagua’s Earlier Criticism of Political Movements
In May 2024, while still serving as Deputy President, Gachagua criticized leaders for what he termed “political tourism”, urging them to focus on their constituencies rather than moving from county to county politicking.
Speaking in Uasin Gishu County, he cautioned that such activities were disrupting the government’s agenda, calling for leaders to remain in their areas and serve their people.
“I urge MPs to stay in their constituencies and serve the people. This trend of political tourism must stop because it is derailing us,” Gachagua warned.
President Ruto’s Contradictory Stance
However, President William Ruto later took a different position, advocating for MPs to travel across the country to better understand their legislative and oversight responsibilities.
Speaking during a church service in Bungoma County, Ruto noted that movement across the nation allows leaders to effectively execute their mandates.
“I am pleased that many MPs are here. Moving around the country enables them to fully grasp their legislative and oversight roles,” Ruto stated.
