National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and South Mugirango MP Silvanus Osoro have launched scathing criticism against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his recent remarks urging Kenyans in the diaspora to stop remitting money back home.
Speaking in Chuka during the launch of a road construction project, Ichung’wah labelled Gachagua’s comments as irresponsible and dangerous to the country’s economy. He argued that urging Kenyans abroad to halt financial support to their families in protest against President William Ruto’s administration was tantamount to punishing innocent citizens.
“We want to ask those who are bad-mouthing our country outside the country to try to be patriotic, not for the sake of the leaders but for the sake of the country,” said Ichung’wah. He emphasized that remittances from the diaspora are vital to sustaining livelihoods and national development. “Ukiwa kiongozi ukiwa Marekani unaambia Wakenya wasitume wazazi wao pesa, utakuwa unaumiza wazazi sio serikali,” he added.
Ichung’wah further warned that such divisive statements risk destabilizing the country and undermining its international image. He called on opposition leaders to abandon rhetoric rooted in tribalism and hate and instead focus on constructive dialogue and development-oriented politics.
Echoing these sentiments, MP Silvanus Osoro ridiculed Gachagua’s political standing, suggesting that his influence has diminished significantly. In a veiled jab, Osoro mocked the former deputy president’s term in office, saying, “Mwenye anongoza choir ya wantam alikuwa bunge term moja, kumaanisha yeye ndio one-term.”
He also dismissed Gachagua’s apparent presidential ambitions, claiming the former deputy lacks the credibility to mount a serious bid. “Huyu mwenye anapiga kelele huko America hata hawezi simama president sababu yuko impeached,” Osoro said.
Osoro also rallied behind Deputy President Professor Kithure Kindiki, urging Kenyans to respect the current leadership and give them the space to deliver on their mandate. He expressed confidence that the Ruto administration is on track to fulfill its development agenda and secure a second term.
The remarks mark a deepening rift within Kenya Kwanza, highlighting growing tensions over succession and leadership within the ruling coalition.
