A storm is brewing in Kenya’s political landscape after a section of Rift Valley leaders called for the prosecution of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over remarks made during a recent media interview, where he likened the deadly 2007/2008 post-election violence to a “Christmas party.”
Speaking during a church service in Kesses, Uasin Gishu County, the leaders accused Gachagua of incitement and stoking ethnic tensions ahead of the 2027 General Election. The comments, which have since sparked national outrage, have been described as insensitive and dangerous, especially considering Uasin Gishu was one of the epicenters of the 2007 post-election chaos that claimed over 1,000 lives and displaced hundreds of thousands.
Senate Majority Leader and Nandi Senator Aaron Cheruiyot led the charge, saying Gachagua’s remarks were a direct threat to national peace and unity. “We want to see Rigathi Gachagua prosecuted for what he said. He is calling for Kenyans to fight, harm each other, and kill each other. He should be called to record a statement and be arraigned in court,” Cheruiyot stated.
Cheruiyot further accused the former DP of consistently using media interviews to spread hate and defame professionals from other communities. “You have made it a habit, Rigathi Gachagua, every time you go for an interview your work is to defame our professionals,” he added.
Kesses MP Julius Ruto echoed the call for action, urging Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to initiate legal proceedings. “We do not want our country to go back to where it was. They should record statements and answer why they want our country to head in the wrong direction,” he said.
Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago also warned against glorifying past atrocities. “Uasin Gishu County went through a very difficult moment. We do not want to remember, nor someone thinking we can go back to the evil that happened,” he stated.
The leaders’ unified stance signals growing tension within the Kenya Kwanza coalition, highlighting deepening rifts as the country prepares for the next electoral cycle.
