The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Over 1,000 Mavoko residents took to the streets of Athi River on Monday to protest recent remarks by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of interfering in the internal political affairs of Machakos County.
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Waving placards and chanting slogans, the demonstrators expressed anger over Gachagua’s criticism of Mavoko MP Patrick Makau, made during an opposition rally held the previous Friday at Makadara shopping centre in Athi River.
Gachagua, now leading the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), had urged voters to reconsider re-electing Makau in 2027, questioning his political loyalty.
During the rally, he said in Swahili, “Tunaua nyoka pamoja na mayai… Mbona watu wengine wanafuata Kalonzo na yule mbunge hafuati Kalonzo Musyoka? Lazima afuate Kalonzo.”
His comments sparked widespread backlash, with residents demanding respect for their elected representatives and condemning what they saw as outside interference.
Robert Maina, a longtime Mavoko resident, said, “We’re disappointed by Gachagua’s remarks. We expect him to respect our leaders the way we respect him. That includes MP Makau and President Ruto.”
Samuel Okinyi, another protester, emphasized that leadership should be chosen by local constituents without external pressure. “It’s wrong for someone from Mt. Kenya to come here and tell us who we should elect,” he said. “That decision belongs to the people of Mavoko.”
Many felt Gachagua’s comments were divisive and could fuel unnecessary political tensions.
“Leaders should respect each other. No one should dictate our electoral choices,” added Okinyi.
Defending the Mavoko MP, Florence Ambaisi said Makau had made significant progress in the constituency. “He has done so much for us. We won’t let him be unfairly targeted.”
Agnes Kamanthe pointed to Makau’s political record, noting, “He’s been elected three times. That speaks volumes about the trust residents have in him.”
Nelson Adiga highlighted the MP’s inclusive development agenda. “Makau has supported education through the NGCDF and serves all communities fairly,” he said.
In response to the criticism, MP Patrick Makau said Gachagua’s comments were “unfortunate and unnecessary.” He questioned the purpose behind the former DP’s remarks. “This kind of rhetoric doesn’t build leadership,” he said, adding that it was ill-timed given the economic struggles many Kenyans face.
Makau, who has announced his intention to run for Machakos Governor in 2027, stressed that political leaders should respect the will of the people and focus on service delivery rather than sowing division.
“I’m committed to serving my constituents. But if an impeachment motion against Gachagua came back to Parliament, I’d consider supporting it,” he added.
He concluded by calling for respectful dialogue among leaders and a renewed focus on unity and development across the country.
