Kimani Mwangi: Gachagua has bad habit of branding people

By Robert Mutasi 

Public Policy and Governance Expert Kimani Mwangi launched a scathing attack on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua regarding Mount Kenya leadership. 

Speaking during an interview with K24 Tv on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, Mwangi spoke of alarm at Gachagua's leadership style as he accused him of instilling a culture of fear and intimidation among both leaders and residents of the region.

He said that Gachagua has developed a habit of declaring an individual opposed to his political stand as a traitor or one who is working against the interest of the people. 

He went on to say that this has built an oppressive environment for leaders in Central Kenya, where every dissenting voice is often silenced or discredited.

"Our people in Central Kenya are being led by a very vicious leader who, whenever anybody goes against his wishes, they are branded a traitor or accused of being hired to work against the people," Mwangi said in an interview.

 He further decried that Gachagua dismisses any form of opposition or dissenting opinion, labeling those speaking out as working against the common good.

Mwangi also criticized Gachagua's populist manner, saying the Deputy President has been "listening to the ground" all the time without applying logic and good judgment in decision-making. 

According to Mwangi, that has obstructed constructive dialogue and policy-making that embrace diverse views in the region.

"He has this very bad habit of telling everybody that 'we are listening to the ground.' Gachagua doesn't want to apply logic," Mwangi said, insinuating that Gachagua's leadership style alienates many in Central Kenya and is growing in divisive feeling.

Mwangi's statement comes amidst increased political temperatures in the country, as Kenyans are still set to go to the ballot for the 2027 general election.

Central Kenya continues to be a key battleground, and whatever Gachagua does or says in the region may have greater implications for the political environment. 

The DP has different times defended his leadership style, arguing he is acting in the best interest of the people of Central Kenya.