Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has called out former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over statements suggesting that politicians from the Mount Kenya region should take charge of Nairobi’s political landscape after the 2027 General Election.
Speaking on Sunday, December 7, during a public event, Duale criticised the remarks as divisive and disrespectful to the diverse communities that have shaped Nairobi’s growth for decades.
Duale said Gachagua’s claims appeared politically driven and risked straining long-standing relations between residents of Mount Kenya and other communities who live and work in the capital.
“I really want the former Deputy President to respect other communities. The Kikuyu community is one of our best friends and business partners, particularly in Eastleigh. The majority of customers who support businesses there come from the Mount Kenya region,” he said.
The Health CS stressed that Kenya’s political future must be built on unity rather than tribal dominance.
“He should keep his tribalism to himself. Our national vision is a unified, indivisible country where every community feels included,” Duale added.
His remarks came shortly after Gachagua, now the leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), dismissed reports of an internal supremacy battle within the opposition camp in Nairobi.
Gachagua insisted the opposition remains united and will collaborate strategically by supporting candidates in areas where each party is strongest.
“In Nairobi, Wiper has had a big name. They’ve always worked with ODM. There is no way we will have friendly fire,” he said, adding that Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka will play a key role in shaping the opposition’s political presence in the capital.
He also extended an invitation to ODM leaders to join forces in challenging President William Ruto’s administration in 2027.
“We want the face of Kenya in Nairobi, and we don’t want ODM left behind. We are depending on Kalonzo to plan for Nairobi because he has experience,” Gachagua noted.
His comments followed earlier reports claiming an agreement would allow his party to dominate top Nairobi seats claims Kalonzo has since dismissed as propaganda.