The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
Tensions have escalated between Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua following a recent meeting between Kindiki and artists from the Mt Kenya region at his Karen residence.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
The gathering sparked a political storm, with Gachagua accusing the musicians of betraying their community and urging the public to boycott their music, avoid venues that host them, and unfollow them on social media. He labeled the artists as “traitors,” claiming they were being used to falsely promote government initiatives.
“These artists betrayed the community. They were summoned to Karen and told to praise non-existent development—roads, education, and SHA,” Gachagua said.
In response, Kindiki fired back, condemning Gachagua’s remarks as authoritarian and harmful to national cohesion. Speaking after the meeting, he defended the artists and warned against attempts to control or intimidate citizens.
“Some people have become too arrogant, dictating to musicians and leaders. Who do they think they are?” Kindiki asked. “If you get too close with your threats, we will deal with you accordingly.”
Kindiki also dismissed the boycott calls as economic sabotage and vowed to protect the rights and livelihoods of Kenyan artists. “Why should musicians be punished for expressing themselves? Don’t they deserve to benefit from their talent, just like athletes do?” he said.
The conflict, now dubbed “The Battle of the Deputy Presidents,” highlights growing political rifts in the Mt Kenya region, with leaders taking sides.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah also weighed in, criticizing Gachagua for promoting division and using inflammatory language.
“It’s unfortunate that someone who once held a top leadership role can talk of violence like it’s a festival. Anyone who glorifies bloodshed has no place in leadership,” Ichung’wah said during a rally in Nyeri.
The political fallout continues to draw national attention as calls for unity clash with growing factionalism in the region.
