Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for what he described as a violation of Mbeere cultural traditions during his recent campaign activities in Mbeere North.
Gachagua, who was conducting a door-to-door campaign for a Democratic Congress Party (DCP) candidate, was captured sharing tea with residents inside a traditional kitchen a move CS Ruku says goes against long-held cultural norms.
Speaking on Thursday at Kanyuambora in Mbeere North, where he accompanied Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to campaign for UDA candidate Leonard Wamuthende, Ruku said the act was unfamiliar and deeply frowned upon within Mbeere customs.
“It is taboo for circumcised men in Mbeere to step into the kitchen when women are cooking. What he is doing goes against our traditions,” he said.
According to Ruku, kitchens in traditional Mbeere homesteads have long been considered spaces reserved for women, especially during meal preparation. He said elders in the region still uphold these customs, and leaders visiting the area should be mindful of the cultural boundaries observed by locals.
Ruku argued that respecting local traditions is essential, especially at a time when political leaders are actively engaging with communities ahead of the Mbeere North by-election. He urged leaders traversing the region to familiarise themselves with cultural practices to avoid offending residents.
Beyond the cultural matter, the CS encouraged voters to remain vigilant during the election period. He urged them to safeguard their identification documents and remain actively involved in shaping their constituency’s political direction.
Ruku also weighed in on the heightened political interest in the by-election, noting that residents were well aware of the development records of leaders seeking influence in the constituency. He advised voters to choose candidates with credible and practical development agendas.
He further reaffirmed the region’s political alignment, emphasising continued support for President William Ruto and Deputy President Kindiki as leaders from the area work together ahead of the 2027 General Election.
