Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has flatly repudiated claims of tribalism, decribing them as a desperate political move meant to divert his rising popularity countrywide.
Speaking in Kansas City, USA, Gachagua blamed President William Ruto and his allies for spinning the narrative as a plot to label him as a tribalist in a failed attempt to undermine his popularity among ordinary Kenyans. He insisted that the tribalist label is not a general public view but a move motivated by government-dictated opinion.
“William Ruto has nothing against me and the only remaining strategy is to label me a tribalist to try demean me before the people of Kenya,” Gachagua said.
“Fortunately, it’s only Ruto and bloggers paid by the government who call me a tribalist. I am the darling of the Kenyan people,” he added.
Gachagua pointed to his recent tours across the country as clear evidence of his national appeal, saying Kenyans from all regions have embraced his message.
“When I was in Ukambani, thousands of people wanted to hear from me,” he said.
“When I arrived in Mombasa, Kilifi, and Malindi, people wanted to listen to me. In Maasai land – Kajiado and Narok – people wanted to listen to me. In western Kenya, I was the star guest in Bungoma, Kakamega, Busia, and Vihiga.”
Gachagua believes Kenyans identify with him since he speaks their minds and speaks up for them.
“The people of Kenya listen to me and the truth I speak every day,” he said. “I am very keen to stand for the people of Kenya. I talk for the people of Kenya.”
Gachagua also highlighted his strong opposition to the government’s taxation policies, which had initiated nationwide protests spearheaded by Gen Z. He clarified that he was doing so because he desired to save ordinary Kenyans from what he termed as punitive actions.
“I fought for all the Gen Zs of Kenya. When I oppose over taxation, I do it for the people of Kenya,” he said.
Describing himself as a man driven by purpose and resilience, Gachagua declared that many Kenyans are standing with him on his journey.
“Kenyans have understood who Riggy G is, and Ruto, with his narrative, will go nowhere,” he said. “I’m not intimidated. I’m strong and focused. I’m a man on a mission.”
During his ongoing Diaspora Engagement Tour of the USA, Gachagua presided over the official opening of the Midwest DCP Office Kansas City Chapter.
