In a recent development that has sent ripples through Kenya’s political landscape, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s remarks regarding a potential agreement between President William Ruto and Raila Odinga have sparked intense scrutiny.
Gachagua’s assertion that such an agreement could exclude Wiper’s Kalonzo Musyoka has raised concerns among political observers.
Kitui Central Member of Parliament, Makali Mulu, voiced apprehensions over Gachagua’s remarks, cautioning that any deal sidelining Kalonzo could undermine the opposition’s mission to hold the government accountable.
Mulu went on to criticize Gachagua for disclosing information about discussions between Ruto and Raila, diverging from an understanding reached by a bipartisan team representing the two leaders.
The situation has further been complicated by the threat of opposition from Kalonzo’s allies in the lower eastern region. Should a Ruto-Raila agreement materialize, these allies are poised to oppose it, advocating instead for their own set of demands that reflect the interests of their constituents.
Gachagua’s claims have added fuel to the fire, alleging that Raila is exerting undue influence on Kalonzo through ongoing discussions, with Raila’s personal gains potentially overshadowing the broader agreement with Ruto.
The controversy emerged during the funeral of Mwala MP Vincent Musyoka’s mother, where Gachagua unveiled these assertions.
While Gachagua hinted that the supposed agreement was brokered in Mombasa, he refrained from disclosing specific details about the terms, date, or individuals involved in brokering the deal.
Raila Odinga and Kalonzo Musyoka have yet to respond to these allegations, leaving room for speculation about their stance on the matter.
In a bid to address the issue, Kalonzo was appointed to lead Azimio’s bipartisan talks, a platform aiming to negotiate with the government. This endeavor is guided by Kimani Ichung’wah, the Kikuyu MP, and National Assembly majority leader.
