Human Rights Activist Condemns Gachagua’s Call for Payment Before Medical Treatment

 Human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has strongly condemned recent statements by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who suggested that private hospitals should deny treatment to patients who have not paid in advance. Ngetich described the remarks as “reckless, unconstitutional, and tantamount to a declaration of mass murder,” warning that any fatalities arising from such directives would carry the full political, legal, and moral responsibility of Gachagua and his political formation.

“Medical care is an undisputed constitutional right for every Kenyan, regardless of their financial status,” Ngetich said during a press briefing in Eldoret. “The idea that a sick person could be denied urgent treatment because they cannot pay upfront is not only morally reprehensible but also illegal. Any private hospital that obeys Gachagua’s advice should face the full force of the law.”

Ngetich warned that the former deputy president’s statements expose a broader threat to national cohesion. “Inciteful and tribalist leadership poses an existential threat to the nation. It transforms political competition into a zero-sum game, exploiting ethnic loyalties for personal gain. Such leadership destroys social cohesion, undermines democratic institutions, and creates fertile ground for violence, poverty, and long-term instability,” he said.

The activist also criticized the so-called United Opposition, arguing that it is rooted in tribalism and hatred. “Kenyans must understand what this formation represents. Their agenda is built on division, and they fear that President William Ruto’s track record of development and national cohesion since taking office in 2022 will naturally secure him a second term,” Ngetich said.

He further cautioned that Gachagua’s political ambitions prioritize ethnic power rotation over the welfare of ordinary citizens. “Leadership is about responsibility and service, not the consolidation of power among a few tribes. Gachagua and his allies are interested only in political gain, not in improving the lives of the common mwananchi,” he stated.

Ngetich criticized the alignment of certain church and religious leaders, particularly from the Mt. Kenya region, who he says have endorsed Gachagua’s divisive political agenda. “It is deeply troubling when religious institutions lend credibility to political manipulation. Faith should unite communities, not serve as a tool for spreading tribal division and hatred,” he remarked.

The activist also highlighted the recruitment of high-profile politicians, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Fred Matiang’i, and Eugene Wamalwa, into what he described as “tribal destructive political games.” According to Ngetich, such alliances are designed to legitimize and expand a political project that threatens national unity.

“Kenya requires leaders who confront issues affecting ordinary citizens without injecting tribal venom,” Ngetich said. “President Ruto has demonstrated that inclusive governance is possible by engaging all Kenyans, regardless of tribe or party affiliation. This is the kind of leadership that strengthens institutions, promotes development, and preserves national identity.”

He urged Kenyans, especially the youth, to participate actively in the democratic process. “Young people must register as voters and exercise their constitutional rights responsibly. Do not be misled by opposition narratives that promise alternative leadership but are rooted in hatred and division,” Ngetich said.

The activist concluded with a stern warning to the nation. “Taking Kenya back to the dark days of tribalism, hatred, and marginalization is unacceptable. Rigathi Gachagua’s irresponsible and reckless statements stand condemned. We must remain vigilant, focused on development, patriotism, and the preservation of national cohesion. Our future depends on leaders who prioritize the welfare of all Kenyans, not the interests of a few.”