Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has claimed that some leaders are afraid of being seen with him due to fears of being victimized.
Gachagua explained that individuals from various sectors, including church leaders, professionals, and businesspeople, are reaching out to him with their views on the way forward for Mt. Kenya, but are reluctant to be publicly associated with him.
“The number of people willing to come and see me is growing, but many are scared to be seen with me because of the fear of their businesses being interfered with,” Gachagua said.
Despite these concerns, he noted that he will continue to receive substantial feedback through meetings, emails, WhatsApp, and text messages.
Speaking during a TikTok Live session, he acknowledged that the volume of feedback he has received made it challenging to meet his initial goal of completing consultations by January 31st.
“I had hoped to report to the people by the end of January, but the number of views coming in has made it challenging,” Gachagua admitted.
He revealed that many of those he has spoken to have expressed disappointment, with some regretting their decision to join President William Ruto’s party without a political vehicle of their own.
“Many people believe we made a serious mistake joining the party without our political vehicle. They feel we need to negotiate better in the future,” he said.
While addressing rumours about potential endorsements, Gachagua clarified his meetings do not amount to endorsing anyone.
“I am a people-centred leader, and I listen to the people. My meetings do not amount to endorsing anyone. I want to assure my friends, you want to run as an MCA, in whatever outfit we shall be, the people will decide regardless” He noted
He reiterated his belief that leadership decisions should come from the people, quoting the late Kenneth Matiba: “Let the people decide.”
He reassured both his supporters and critics that his doors remain open to all, regardless of their political leanings.
Gachagua promised to provide a comprehensive report on the consultations soon and if more time is needed, he will request it.
