Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at Mwiki PCEA Church Service on Sunday, December 8, 2024.

Gachagua: Stop Lecturing Kenyans, Listen to Their Concerns

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called on government officials to be more tolerant of differing opinions, stressing that there is no need to lecture Kenyans for expressing what he called the truth.

Speaking at a PCEA church service in Mwiki, Kasarani, Gachagua stated that Kenyans have the right to voice their concerns about issues affecting the economy and the country as a whole.

He urged the government to listen to the views of the people and make necessary adjustments, rather than attacking the very citizens who express these opinions.

“I urge our leaders to be more tolerant of differing opinions. If Kenyans feel things aren’t going well, don’t lecture them. They are the ones who put you in office,” Gachagua said.

His remarks followed statements from government officials, including President William Ruto, who encouraged Kenyans to show love for their country and practice restraint when criticizing it.

Mining CS Hassan Joho also called for patriotism, urging Kenyans to support government initiatives for the nation’s progress. Speaking in Kilifi, Joho emphasized the importance of embracing a positive mindset for the country’s benefit.

“I was with the president in New York, and in one of the meetings where I was promoting the Blue Economy, most of the questions came from social media, and we couldn’t provide adequate responses,” Joho remarked.

He further stated, “We must take responsibility for our country. We cannot afford to waste even one year, as it impacts future generations.”

In response, Gachagua emphasized that it is the leaders who should listen to the people, as they are the ones who elect them.

“Why should you be upset? If your boss tells you things aren’t working, you shouldn’t get upset,” he said.

Gachagua also defended the Church, describing it as the only truly independent voice capable of representing the people’s concerns. He pointed out that religious leaders, who engage with ordinary citizens daily, are well aware of the challenges faced by the public.

“The Church speaks the voice of God. If religious leaders say the economy is struggling or that there are issues with programs like SHIF and SHA, it is the truth. Let’s stop silencing our religious leaders,” he concluded.

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