A strong warning has been issued to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over what has been described as a sustained campaign of threats, insults, and open defiance directed at President William Ruto. Eldoret-based human rights defender and political commentator Kipkorir Ngetich has condemned Gachagua's utterances and actions, terming them reckless, tribal, and a dangerous threat to national unity and peace.
In a hard-hitting statement, Ngetich said Gachagua’s public attacks against the Head of State are not only disrespectful but border on incitement and ethnic manipulation. He cautioned the former deputy president to cease from hiding behind constitutional freedoms to spread hate, division, and targeted abuse.
“Freedom of speech is a constitutional right, but it is not a right to insult, demean, or threaten the president of the Republic of Kenya. Rigathi Gachagua has crossed a line, repeatedly daring and provoking the president in a manner unbecoming of any national leader,” Ngetich stated.
He accused Gachagua of mobilizing a clique of politicians, among them former Cabinet Secretaries Fred Matiang’i and Eugene Wamalwa, as well as Martha Karua and Justin Muturi, who he claimed are part of a political formation sponsored by former President Uhuru Kenyatta. According to Ngetich, this group is working under a revenge-driven agenda that could destabilize the country.
“Their political strategy mimics those of failed communist regimes—propaganda, tribal polarization, and character assassination. They are not interested in building Kenya. Their mission is to destroy reputations and divide Kenyans, particularly by weaponizing the Mt. Kenya region against President Ruto,” he said.
Ngetich called on the people of Mt. Kenya to reject what he called "Gachagua's tribal card," warning that it is a trap to turn an entire community into a political weapon for personal gain. He stressed that President Ruto enjoys constitutional legitimacy, having been elected by the people of Kenya in a democratic process.
“President Ruto supported former President Uhuru Kenyatta loyally for ten years. It would be both unfair and dangerous to now use the Mt. Kenya region as a platform to wage a revenge war against him,” Ngetich stated.
He noted that the President has remained silent in the face of repeated insults and malicious propaganda, choosing instead to lead with humility, tolerance, and a focus on development and national reconciliation.
“However, tolerance should not be mistaken for weakness. The President has endured insults, falsehoods, and character assassination in silence for the sake of national peace. But there comes a time when enough is enough. Gachagua must be warned: this constant defiance and provocation must stop,” said Ngetich.
He also alleged that some of Gachagua’s associates are using their positions in sensitive national institutions, including the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), to shield themselves from accountability while promoting tribal animosity.
“It is ironic that those who claim to protect national cohesion are the same ones fueling division. We urge NCIC and other institutions to remain neutral and to take firm action against any individual, regardless of rank, who incites hate or insults the presidency,” he added.
Ngetich further argued that no nation has ever progressed on the foundation of insults, tribalism, and bitterness. He emphasized that Kenya's future lies in respecting democratic institutions, promoting unity, and nurturing a generation of leaders who value dialogue and decency over personal vendettas.
“We cannot allow a culture of hate and disrespect to take root in this country. We cannot breed a generation that sees insults and tribal incitement as a strategy for gaining power. This country needs leaders who can rise above bitterness and guide us forward,” said Ngetich.
He lauded the President for conducting peaceful engagements with residents of Mt. Kenya in recent weeks, which he claimed had provoked the bitterness now being witnessed among Gachagua’s political allies.
“The President has visited Mt. Kenya and engaged its people directly, focusing on development and national dialogue. It is this genuine engagement that has unsettled Gachagua and his allies, prompting their angry and unfounded attacks,” Ngetich noted.
He closed his remarks with a direct warning to Gachagua: “You are free to pursue your political ambitions, but not at the expense of our country’s unity and the dignity of the presidency. If you cannot respect the office of the President, then perhaps you should find another country where abuse of leaders is a badge of honor.”
“The law is clear. The constitution protects speech, but it does not protect incitement, hate, or defamation. Gachagua must now choose whether to act as a responsible leader or continue down a path that may attract legal consequences. Let him not drag an entire community into his personal battles. Once you cross the red line, it is you alone who will be held accountable.”
0 $type={facebook}:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.