Gachagua’s explosive remarks at MP Kiaraho burial spark storm in Parliament

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s remarks have sparked outrage among a section of Members of Parliament.

Majority Leader in the National Assembly, Kimani Ichung’wah, led MPs in condemning Gachagua over remarks made on Wednesday, with legislators now calling for tougher laws against politicians who spread hate, especially during funerals.

Ichung’wah criticised him for what he termed as disrespect during the funeral service of the late Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho.

“It was very callous of Gachagua and the other bearded character not to pay respect to the family. At the time of the impeachment motion, Hon. Kiaraho was in India,” he said.

Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba added, “It is unfair for us to contribute Ksh.100,000 to support the family, only for the funeral to be turned into a political platform.”

MPs have also dismissed Gachagua’s claims that President William Ruto is not popular in the Mt Kenya region, terming the remarks misleading and divisive.

“What I heard yesterday was outright tribal bigotry, someone pretending to speak on behalf of the President,” Ichung’wah stated.

Lamu East MP Ruweida Obo, on her part said, “That space is becoming dangerous. As MPs, we may have to stay away until leaders stop issuing threats.”

Ichung’wah has downplayed concerns over Gachagua’s planned visit to Kikuyu, saying all leaders are welcome, but warning against incitement.

“He says he’s coming to Kikuyu this Saturday, and we welcome everyone. What we reject is ferrying goons to loot businesses,” he noted.

Information, Communications and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has also condemned Gachagua’s remarks, terming them disrespectful to the Head of State.

“It was uncalled for. It was unnecessary. Moving forward, let’s conduct ourselves better,” said Kabogo.

Speaking in Laikipia, Gachagua stood by his remarks, insisting they were justified. He, however, expressed doubt that his complaints against Ichung’wah would be acted upon by the President.

“I lodged a complaint against Ichung'wah yesterday, but it felt pointless. I later asked myself, was I wasting my time?” Gachagua posed.

Gachagua also accused President Ruto of interfering in his family’s affairs.

“They’re throwing around all sorts of allegations, but people know us. We’ve cleared our name. There’s nothing Ruto can tell Kenyans about me,” Gachagua noted.

He further warned Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders against working with President Ruto, claiming the alliance is aimed at weakening the party along tribal lines.