- Rigathi Gachagua says the Kalenjin community is a strong ally of the GEMA bloc.
- He insists his dispute is with President William Ruto, not the wider community.
- The former Deputy President claims the region has been sidelined in development.
- He promises no discrimination if his side forms the next government.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has moved to separate his political fallout with William Ruto from his relationship with the Kalenjin community.
In an interview with Kalenjin-based media outlets, Gachagua said he holds no grudge against the community. He described them as dependable partners of the GEMA bloc and said their cooperation remains important for the country’s future.
According to him, his disagreement is personal and political, directed at the President, not the people of the Rift Valley.
Gachagua argued that despite producing the Head of State, the Kalenjin region has not received the level of development it deserves.
He questioned why key projects such as roads and water initiatives have not moved at the expected pace. He also wondered why presidential visits to counties like Kericho and Bomet have not focused on launching major projects.
In his view, the community has stood firmly behind the current administration but has little to show for that loyalty.
The leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party assured residents that they would not face exclusion if his political outfit wins power in the 2027 General Election.
He dismissed fears that a change in leadership would lock out the Kalenjin from government. Gachagua said the community has contributed greatly to Kenya’s growth and should not be blamed for the actions of one leader.
He maintained that political competition should not divide communities that have worked together for years.
Gachagua also took issue with leaders from the region, saying many have remained quiet while development concerns grow.
He questioned who would speak up for the people if elected representatives fail to raise their voices. In his remarks, he suggested that stronger advocacy is needed to ensure the area benefits from national programmes.
As political temperatures begin to rise, Gachagua announced plans to pass through parts of the Rift Valley next week on his way to Kisii for official engagements.
The visit, he said, will offer him a chance to interact with residents and reaffirm his message of unity.
With the 2027 race slowly taking shape, the former Deputy President appears keen to rebuild alliances while drawing a clear line between his political battles and community relations.
