The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua says a determined government could make significant progress in fighting corruption within its first year in office, arguing that the effort must start with the President and extend across the entire government.
Speaking to business leaders at Silo Modern Farmhouse in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 18, 2026, Gachagua said he believes corruption can be addressed within 12 months if there is strong political commitment from the highest level of government.
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He maintained that a President who takes a firm position against corruption can influence how public officials and citizens conduct themselves.
“I have what it takes to fix these things within one year of forming government because it is doable,” Gachagua said.
The former Deputy President acknowledged that corruption remains a significant challenge in Kenya, describing the problem as increasingly difficult to address.
He cited the early years of former President Mwai Kibaki’s administration as an example of what he considers the impact of strong political leadership in confronting corruption.
Gachagua recalled that when Kibaki assumed office in 2003, there was widespread public pressure to tackle corruption, with citizens becoming actively involved in efforts to confront the vice.
He also pointed to reforms undertaken in the Judiciary during Kibaki’s tenure, saying they demonstrated the potential impact of decisive action against corruption within public institutions.
Gachagua argued that similar commitment by a future administration could produce noticeable changes within a relatively short period.
“I’m clear in my mind that once we get a president who decides that corruption will not be allowed in Kenya, within 12 months things will be working,” he said.
During his ongoing engagements in the United States, Gachagua has been discussing issues affecting Kenya with members of the Kenyan diaspora, business executives and other stakeholders.
His discussions have included the economy, public procurement and the management of government resources.
He has also advocated for the settlement of verified government pending bills and measures aimed at restoring confidence in procurement instruments, including Local Purchase Orders and Local Service Orders.
The corruption pledge comes as Gachagua continues to position himself for a possible role in Kenya’s 2027 presidential contest.
Gachagua served as Kenya’s Deputy President from 2022 until October 2024, when he was removed from office following an impeachment process.
