Gachagua to chiefs: I will not allow you to sabotage me

By Peter Ochieng

Deputy President (DP) Rigathi Gachagua has reiterated his stand on the possibility of sacking some chiefs across the country, by Christmas, 2023.

Speaking in Kericho county during the first day of a health conference, Gachagua said that chiefs who fail to end the menace of alcoholism in their locations will be shown the door.

He said president William Ruto has mandated him with the role of ensuring that the problem is tackled to its logical conclusion, adding that he needs chiefs to get the job done.

However, the second in command warned that he will not allow chiefs to draw him back in the fight against alcohol and drug abuse.

"We have agreed that alcohol and a chief will not exist in the same location. And because alcohol does not have the ability to decide, you as the chief you are the one to make a decision. Just make a decision so that you keep your job, because I know you need it," the the DP.

"The president has charged me with the responsibility of ending alcohol and drug abuse in this country. I will not allow you to sabotage me so that the president gets a reason to sack me. I make sure you go first."

It is worth noting that unlike the previous constitution where the president had powers to sack his deputy (then known as Vice President) at anytime, the current constitution promulgated in 2010 does not give that leeway.

The president and his or her deputy are elected for a five year term, and have to serve together to the end unless the deputy resigns, is incapacitated or dies among other reasons.

Gachagua said he loves chiefs, noting that it will be sad for him to sanction their sacking over non performance.

"I have been given this job by the president. If I see you trying to destroy my job, I will destroy yours first."

He took the opportunity to invite Kenyans for the Mashujaa Day celebrations on October 20th, which will be Friday this week.

The celebrations will be presided over by President William Ruto, who is currently away in Beijing, China.