The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua dismissed accusations that his campaign for “One man, One shilling” would unfairly disadvantage other regions.
He expressed disappointment that some were distorting his proposal, which he sees as a genuine effort to ensure an equitable distribution of national resources.
“When we discuss resource allocation, it shouldn’t be seen as tribalism but rather as a rational and just argument,” Gachagua stated.
He clarified that “One man, one shilling” is not solely for the benefit of Mount Kenya but for the entire nation.
“I urge leaders representing populous regions not to oppose this approach. How can you oppose a formula that benefits your people?” he questioned during an event in Muragua.
Gachagua was speaking at a fundraiser for school children in Mary Wa Maua’s constituency.
He emphasized that his call for “One man, one shilling” aims to ensure fairness so that marginalized groups also receive their rightful share of national resources.
“When I talk about fair resource distribution, I mean it’s for the sake of our children. ‘One man, one shilling’ isn’t about taking from others to give to our people,” Gachagua explained.
“This isn’t about Mount Kenya alone; it’s about the entire country. It’s all about fairness,” he reiterated.
Gachagua insisted that “One man, one shilling” would address existing inequalities.
“We’re advocating that a child in Maragua, Wajir, Turkana, Migori, or Laikipia should all receive equal treatment,” he affirmed.
“If a child in Maragua gets 20,000 shillings for a bursary, a child in Garissa should receive the same. That’s the essence of it.”
The Deputy President has faced criticism and accusations of stoking tribal tensions with his “One man, one shilling” campaign.
Some leaders from his Mount Kenya region have labeled him a tribalist, accusing him of using the revenue formula to incite ethnic divisions.
However, Gachagua dismissed these claims, emphasizing that his goal is fairness and equity in the distribution of national resources.
“When we advocate for this, are we insulting anyone? We consider all these children our own, and everyone should be treated fairly,” he argued.
“If we’re drilling a borehole, we should consider how many people it will serve. In Ruiru, with 800,000 people, boreholes must be adequate to serve them all,” he added.
Gachagua questioned why his critics haven’t called for the release of prisoners predominantly from his region.
“People shouldn’t be condemned for their numbers; that’s how God planned it. Even in Kamiti, our people are many, but I haven’t heard calls to release the majority,” he pointed out.
“Why is there resistance when we suggest equal sharing? If that’s an issue, then let’s also discuss Kamiiti and consider releasing those who are numerous there.”
