Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly criticized his successor, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, telling him to stop referring to him as his “brother.” Gachagua stated that their relationship deteriorated after his exit from office, accusing the current Deputy President of failing to show him respect and openly questioning Kindiki’s claims of having respected him during his tenure.
“I respected you when you were in office. We differed when I left, and you told me to leave. When I left, weren’t you the one who removed me? So let me ask you, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, how did you respect me?” Gachagua posed, advising Kindiki to stay focused on his current role regardless of any challenges he might face: “Even if you are facing issues there, stay there. Do not call me your brother.”
Beyond political friction, the Democratic Cultural Party (DCP) leader expressed grave concern over rising alcohol abuse among the youth, revealing that the issue keeps him awake at night. He explained that during his time in office, he spearheaded efforts to combat substance abuse in the region but faced significant political resistance.
“I am receiving troubling reports regarding alcohol abuse among our young people. These reports keep me awake at night; it is destroying our youth. I was helping our community fight substance abuse, but I was opposed,” Gachagua stated.
Gachagua’s remarks follow recent comments by Deputy President Kindiki, who urged his predecessor to show respect and approach political discussions with restraint.
“Approach with moderation. We will not tolerate disrespect, and we have no issue with anyone. Come, explain your agenda, and leave because we are not rowdy people but do not continue with that disrespect,” Kindiki said while addressing the former Deputy President.
Speaking on Sunday, Deputy President Kindiki also urged the Mount Kenya region to maintain unity despite emerging political differences, warning that electoral competition should not fracture the community or undermine national peace. He emphasized that political contests are temporary, whereas the unity of the region and the nation endures long after elections, calling on leaders and citizens to focus on development and evaluate political figures based on their track records.
“I humbly ask that we remain tolerant of one another. Even if we have minor political differences at home, we must not use those differences to disrupt the peace of our community or the nation,” Kindiki stated, cautioning against political insults, violence, and the destruction of property while reminding leaders that those who lose in elections will always have future opportunities to seek office.
