The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged the people of the Mt. Kenya region to attend the public rallies that President William Ruto will hold during his upcoming visit to the region in three days.
The President is set to visit the influential region starting April 1 for a development-focused tour, which political analysts believe is aimed at rebuilding his relationship with the residents after a fallout with Gachagua.
Speaking on Saturday in Naivasha, Gachagua encouraged the public not to miss any of the President’s functions. He also advised that if the local leaders assigned to mobilize the crowds offer money as an incentive to attend, the residents should accept it.
The former Deputy President emphasized that President Ruto will bring “goodies” during his visit, which he encouraged the people to gladly accept.
“If you’re going to listen to him, ask for a good price. Don’t settle for less money,” Gachagua said.
“President Ruto, ensure your finances are in order and bring the money because we elected you without asking for anything in return,” he added.
Gachagua made these comments during the consecration and installation ceremony of Reverend Harrison Munyua at Redeemed Church in Naivasha, Nakuru County. While there, he acknowledged greetings from local residents, saying, “Asanteni sana watu wa Naivasha!”
During his speech, Gachagua also commented on remarks made by Chief of Defense Forces General Charles Kahariri about the use of slogans in political events.
In a public lecture at the National Intelligence and Research University (NIRU) on Thursday, Gen. Kahariri warned that the military would not tolerate actions that undermine democracy, including slogans calling for the undemocratic removal of leaders. He emphasized that Kenyans should settle political differences through the ballot, saying, “We can’t have anarchy in this country.”
“While people exercise their freedoms, it must be within certain boundaries. When people decide they are tired of a government they elected themselves and begin chanting ‘must go,’ it must be done in accordance with the constitution,” Kahariri said.
Gachagua interpreted such slogans as a precursor to the 2027 general elections.
At the same time, the former Deputy President urged the police not to interfere with political activities, where people are exercising their democratic right to oppose unpopular policies. He stressed that the days of using police to manage political activities are long over.
President Ruto’s development tour of the Mt. Kenya region is expected to begin in early April, following extensive consultations with local leaders.
His planned itinerary includes starting in Laikipia County on April 1, followed by visits to Meru, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Murang’a, Tharaka Nithi, and Embu, before concluding the tour in Nyeri and Kiambu counties on April 5.
Leaders supporting the President, including Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, have already been active in the region, preparing for his visit.
