Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has sharply criticized his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua, over recent remarks targeting Mt Kenya musicians who attended a meeting at the DP’s official residence in Karen. Speaking during an empowerment event for small-scale traders at Ndurarua Primary School in Kiambu County on Sunday, Kindiki warned Gachagua against what he termed as divisive and disrespectful rhetoric.
Kindiki accused Gachagua of overstepping his role and disrespecting fellow leaders and artists. “How can you lecture us? Are you God? Who are you? You lecture musicians, politicians and everyone, everywhere. Don’t lecture us, we are not your kids,” Kindiki fired back.
He added that respect is mutual and must be earned, cautioning Gachagua against treating fellow leaders and citizens with disdain. “You must respect us because respect is earned and is two-way,” he said.
The DP also dismissed Gachagua’s claims that the Mt Kenya musicians who visited him were betraying the community. In a veiled dare, Kindiki promised to host 500 musicians n ten times the number Gachagua criticized saying the government is committed to empowering artists and ending their exploitation by cartels.
“You ordered the people not to listen to their songs, as who? I am a man of respect, but if you come within shooting range, we will deal with you,” Kindiki warned.
Gachagua, in a speech on Sunday at AIPCA Kihoya Church in Murang’a County, had accused the musicians of being “traitors to the community” for allegedly promoting government propaganda. He claimed they were being used to mislead citizens that the State is delivering on its promises. He urged them to apologise or face boycotts, including from fans and entertainment venues.
The clash between the two leaders highlights growing tensions within the Kenya Kwanza coalition and Mt Kenya political circles. As Gachagua attempts to consolidate influence through regional loyalty, Kindiki appears to be taking a broader national approach, engaging various sectors and regions.
The dispute also underscores the increasing role of artists in political messaging and the risks they face when caught in political crossfire.
