Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has hit out at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his recent remarks claiming that the Kikuyu community is being targeted, terming the comments “reckless” and a threat to national unity.
Duale’s sharp criticism came after Gachagua, while speaking at the funeral of his aunt Gladys Gathoni Kahua, alleged that his fallout with the Kenya Kwanza government had put his community in jeopardy.
“As a community, we are in trouble and at a crossroads,” Gachagua said. “I can be persecuted, and even my children too, but my concern is for my community. We need help.”
The former DP, who was impeached in October 2024 after a bitter split with President William Ruto, has since formed the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), under the slogan Skiza Wakenya (Listen to Kenyans), and is positioning himself for a 2027 presidential bid.
However, Duale condemned Gachagua’s statements as “dangerous” and accused him of attempting to stoke ethnic tensions for political gain.
“We know Mr Gachagua is in a self-destruction mode. But he cannot burn the country as he destroys himself,” said Duale. “Such reckless statements are dangerous for our country’s peace and stability. This is truly lowering the bar for leadership.”
In recent weeks, Gachagua has intensified his political activities and launched scathing attacks on President Ruto, vowing to make him a one-term president. His latest move included a two-day tour of Western Kenya alongside opposition leaders, including Wiper Party boss Kalonzo Musyoka.
The leaders sought to woo the Luhya community, which holds the second-largest voting bloc after Central Kenya, in a bid to build a united front against Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga.
Gachagua thanked the Mulembe Nation for their support, stating, “We have heard you loud and clear. We will not let you down.”
At the funeral, Gachagua also mourned the loss of his aunt Gathoni, saying, “Her absence leaves a void that cannot be filled.”
