Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi, on June 1 during an exclusive interview with Citizen TV’s Olive Burrow, revealed that Deputy President Hon. Rigathi Gachagua wasn’t the subject of President William Ruto’s Madaraka Day remarks, which appeared to warn leaders against propagating tribal politics.
According to Musalia Mudavadi, President William Ruto and his close allies are concerned that a section of leaders from both Kenya Kwanza and the Azimio camps are spending most of their time trying to shape the 2027 and 2032 politics based on their ethnic groups.
In his message, Mudavadi emphasized that President Ruto could directly address his Deputy President since they consume National Intelligence Service briefings together every morning.
“On that, I can assure you that the Head of State wasn’t addressing his Deputy President. If he (Ruto) wanted to speak to him (Gachagua), he would do it secretly. But for now, I will honestly tell you that Gachagua wasn’t the subject,” Mudavadi said.
Nevertheless, Deputy President Gachagua has been in the spotlight recently after he appeared to suggest that a section of top UDA and government officials allied with President William Ruto have been scheming with some youthful members of Mt. Kenya to divide the region ahead of the 2027 general election.
This statement has fueled speculation and controversy, particularly because Gachagua has been vocal about the need for Agikuyu unity, a stance that has led to him being labeled as tribal.
Despite these claims, Mudavadi reiterated that President Ruto’s Madaraka Day remarks were directed at a broader issue within the political landscape, aiming to curb the growing trend of ethnic-based politics.
He urged leaders to focus on national unity and development rather than engaging in divisive tactics that could hinder progress and stability.
The political tension surrounding these remarks highlights the delicate balance within Kenya’s political alliances and the ongoing struggle to maintain unity while addressing regional and ethnic concerns.