Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Denies Allegations of Party Affiliation Amidst Political Speculation
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has refuted allegations of exploring options with a new political party, denouncing such reports as unfounded and malicious.
In a statement released on Wednesday, May 29, the Deputy President dismissed a recent article in the Daily Nation linking him to The New Democrats (TND) party, labeling it as a one-sided, fabricated narrative steeped in insinuations and ill will.
Ms. Njeri Rugene, head of the Deputy Presidential Communication Service, emphasized the misleading nature of the story, which suggested Mr. Gachagua’s supposed quest for an alternative to President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).
The article drew upon rumors of representatives of the Deputy President engaging with TND amidst internal strife within UDA.
Ms. Rugene underscored that any attempt to associate the Deputy President with another political entity, particularly one with dubious affiliations, was motivated by malice and aimed at undermining his position as the Deputy Party Leader of UDA.
In response to inquiries, TND Secretary-General David Musembi maintained that associates of Mr. Gachagua had indeed approached the party seeking a potential political alliance.
Mr. Musembi recounted how Jimmy Kibaki, TND’s former deputy party leader, expressed disenchantment with the situation and opted to retire from politics due to the perceived discord between President Ruto and his deputy.
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The TND official revealed that the meeting between the DP’s emissaries and TND representatives occurred without the endorsement of the party’s National Executive Council (NEC), resulting in Mr. Kibaki’s departure.
Last week, Mr. Kibaki announced his resignation from the position of TND Deputy Party Leader, citing the need to prioritize familial and business obligations.
Registrar of Political Parties Anne Nderitu disclosed ongoing discussions with TND regarding proposed leadership changes, withholding the names until official gazetting.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga warned President Ruto against jeopardizing his support from the Mt. Kenya region, emphasizing its autonomous political dynamics.
Governor Kahiga highlighted the mountain’s aversion to betrayal and its steadfast loyalty to its chosen leaders, citing historical precedents.
Despite President Uhuru’s efforts to sway the region’s allegiance, Governor Kahiga asserted that attempts to sideline the DP would only galvanize support for him among central Kenya voters.
He commended Deputy President Gachagua’s resilience in the face of adversity, portraying him as an independent political figure with unwavering backing from the mountain region.
Governor Kahiga dismissed notions of external sponsorship for the DP, characterizing him as a self-made leader who has weathered past challenges and emerged stronger.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua Denies Allegations of Party Affiliation Amidst Political Speculation