Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has firmly rejected the possibility of the government engaging in discussions with former Mungiki Leader Maina Njenga, stating that talks will only be entertained if Njenga and others denounce violence.
Njenga had recently appealed to the government for a dialogue to address the recurring issues leading to his arrests.
However, Gachagua made it clear that the government has no intention of negotiating with outlawed criminal groups, insisting that they must first renounce violence before any discussions can take place.
“We cannot negotiate with outlawed criminal gangs. They must denounce violence, and then we can have a discussion,” the Deputy President emphasized during his speech at the burial of Field Marshall Muthoni Kirima, an event attended by Njenga.
Gachagua also used the occasion to dispel rumors of infighting within the Kenya Kwanza Administration, asserting that the government is united in its commitment to deliver on its promises to the people.
As the Principal Assistant to the President, he stressed his responsibility to call out any government official who strays from the right path.
In response to recent incidents involving public servants, including Trade and Investment Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria’s interaction with concerned citizens over the high cost of fuel, Gachagua clarified that his statements were meant to guide leaders on effective communication with the public.
He emphasized that there is no conflict between him and leaders working under him and reaffirmed their unity under President William Ruto’s leadership.
“I made the statement as the Deputy President of Kenya. I was guiding Moses Kuria and other leaders on how to communicate with the people. He had veered off. As a leader, I told him to come back on track. There is no way a Deputy President can be at war with the people working under him. It is my responsibility to guide and give directions to all leaders in the government who in one way or another may get out of track. Please understand that we are working as one unit led by our president William Ruto. We are together and united; there is no crack in our Government,” he said.
Furthermore, the Deputy President assured that there would be no imminent changes in the composition of the Cabinet.
Regarding the soaring cost of living and increased fuel prices, Gachagua acknowledged the concerns raised by opposition leaders but urged patience from Kenyan citizens, stating that the Ruto Administration is actively working to address the situation.
In a message conveyed by Gachagua, President William Ruto paid tribute to Field Marshal Muthoni Kirima, describing her as a heroine who epitomized sacrifice for the nation.
Gachagua himself eulogized her as a gallant freedom fighter who had stood alongside Field Marshal Dedan Kimathi in the struggle for independence, even serving as Kimathi’s personal assistant after his capture.
“We recall with pride and sheer admiration, her exploits in leading the land and freedom army after the capture of freedom Hero Dedan Kimathi, whom she served as his personal assistant after he was betrayed by collaborators,” he said.
