The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has pushed back against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s call for a televised presidential debate with President William Ruto, arguing that Gachagua is legally ineligible to run in the 2027 General Election.
Duale stated that presidential debates are reserved for duly qualified candidates and would not include individuals removed from office through impeachment.
In a pointed response shared on X, he suggested that Gachagua should reflect on the loss of his former position instead of demanding a platform he cannot lawfully access.
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“You cannot call for a presidential debate when you’ve already been impeached and stripped of the legitimacy required to seek public office. Debates are for candidates, not for those clinging to past political glory,” Duale wrote.
He added that it was unrealistic to imagine appearing on a ballot while legally barred, emphasizing that next year’s debate would feature only eligible contenders.
The exchange stems from Gachagua’s recent criticism of leaders from North Eastern Kenya, whom he accused of mismanaging devolved funds. He also faulted the Kenya Kwanza administration for allegedly neglecting the region, leaving it vulnerable to drought and hunger.
In response, Duale challenged Gachagua to a debate on Citizen TV’s JKLive programme, declaring during a NYOTA youth empowerment event in Garissa on February 11, 2026, that he was ready to confront him. However, President Ruto urged Duale not to engage, advising him to stay focused on government priorities instead of trading barbs.
Gachagua later dismissed Duale’s challenge, stating he would only participate in a debate directly with President Ruto, not with what he termed “Ruto’s employees.”
He maintained that he is open to a presidential debate next year between himself and the Head of State, urging Duale to assist the President in preparing for it.
