Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a heartfelt appeal to former president Uhuru Kenyatta, seeking reconciliation and forgiveness following the divisive 2022 political campaigns. Speaking at a roadside rally on May 31, Gachagua expressed regret over the actions taken against Kenyatta during the contentious election period.
Gachagua acknowledged that he and other leaders from the Mt Kenya region had erred by vehemently opposing Kenyatta while pledging their loyalty to President William Ruto. He admitted that the electorate in Mt Kenya had been misled by unnamed individuals into dissenting from Kenyatta.
"Never again should we go against our kingpin, our own son. We were misled, we attacked and shouted down President Uhuru Kenyatta. I asked for forgiveness, did you forgive me? Never again will we attack our leader," Gachagua asserted.The deputy president urged the Mt Kenya community to foster unity and avoid internal conflicts, emphasizing the importance of standing together. "Let us love each other. Other communities do not fight or hate one another. But there is always war here in our mountain. There is no day we will ever come against our kingpin like that. Tell our young people not to accept to be used to fight our Kingpin," he stated.
Gachagua's plea for unity and reconciliation comes amid internal strife within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, where he has faced opposition from some party members. He has been advocating for the unity of the Mt Kenya region, often meeting resistance from leaders within the Kenya Kwanza faction.
In his bid to unite the region, Gachagua has consistently argued that Uhuru Kenyatta could play a crucial role in bringing together the people of Mt Kenya ahead of future political endeavors. He also extended an olive branch to other Azimio leaders, including Narc Kenya's Martha Karua and Jubilee Party's Jeremiah Kioni.
Despite Gachagua's appeals, former president Kenyatta has remained silent and distanced himself from active politics, focusing instead on his role as an elections observer and mediator in the Eastern DRC conflicts. Gachagua had previously been a vocal critic of Kenyatta, accusing him of mismanaging the country and damaging the economy before the 2022 elections.
This appeal for forgiveness marks a significant shift in Gachagua's stance, highlighting his desire to mend relationships and foster unity within the Mt Kenya region.
