Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua appears to have softened his tone towards President William Ruto ahead of a planned meet-up in the Mt. Kenya region.
The Democracy for Citizens'(DCP)Party leader on Tuesday said he would reserve political battles for the ballot and not disrupt public events attended by the Head of State.
“Rais akija Ol-Kalou akaribishwe vizuri na asipigiwe kelele, yeye ni Rais wa Kenya. Hatutaki kupiga kelele kwa mkutano kwa sababu tutapiga kelele kwa debe. Sisi kile ambacho tunataka ni mabadiliko kupitia demokrasia,” he said while addressing residents in Narok County.
The former DP had travelled to Narok to unveil his candidate for the Emurua Dikirr by-election following the death of area MP Johanna Ng’eno.
While there, Gachagua formally endorsed Vincent Kibet Rotich as the DCP flag bearer, describing him as a youthful and focused leader ready to carry forward the constituency’s development agenda.
“To the people of Emurua Dikirr, you have always demonstrated strength and courage, and I stand with you every step of the way as we move forward together,” he said.
He added: “I wholeheartedly accept your candidate, an inspiring, young and ambitious leader dedicated to serving the people, Hon. Vincent Kibet Rotich, as the DCP party flag bearer.”
Gachagua told residents that the by-election presents a defining moment for the constituency, urging them to turn out in large numbers and make their voices count.
“You hold a historic and powerful opportunity in your hands. It is time to take action and make your voice heard,” he said, as he wished the candidate well in the upcoming contest.
His remarks come against the backdrop of rising political tension in Mt. Kenya, where President Ruto is expected to attend the burial of businessman David Kiaraho in Ol-Kalou, Nyandarua County on Wednesday.
Gachagua is also expected to attend the burial, setting the stage for a possible face-off between the two leaders at a time when their political differences have continued to play out in public.
