Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua spearheaded an intense political visit to Githunguri Constituency, addressing residents during a gathering organized by parliamentary aspirant Wakili Njenga Mabati.
The gathering, conducted under the banner of his nascent political outfit DCP, attracted a substantial audience and combined grassroots mobilization with pointed political critiques and appeals for renewed voter registration in anticipation of the 2027 General Election.
Gachagua, who continually informed the crowd he had “arrived to listen to the ground,” participated in call-and-response chants with residents as he sought to assess political sentiment in the area.
“Nimekuja kusikiza ground… sasa hapa Githunguri mnasemaje?” he questioned, eliciting enthusiastic responses from the audience.
In a passionate speech, Gachagua delivered sharp criticism against President William Ruto, whom he frequently called “Kasongo,” accusing his government of economic mismanagement and neglect of public services.
He highlighted problems at Kenyatta National Hospital, claiming deficiencies in essential supplies and inadequate patient care.
“Hospitals lack medicine, blood storage facilities, and patients are enduring hardship. Yet attention is directed toward profit-oriented initiatives,” he asserted.
Gachagua further claimed that influential entities were attempting to commercialize important national institutions, asserting that such actions would harm ordinary Kenyan citizens.
The former deputy president introduced what he labeled “Operation Fagia,” a political campaign targeting what he described as disloyal leaders.
“Tukiua nyoka, tunauua pamoja na mayai… tunafagia wasaliti wote,” he declared, advocating unity in what he characterized as a political purification effort.
He accused certain elected officials in Kiambu County of treachery, alleging they had been “purchased” and no longer represented the interests of voters.
A central focus of the tour was Gachagua’s endorsement of local politicians aligned with his camp. He threw his support behind Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa, commending him for rejecting alleged financial inducements.
“Alikataa pesa… huyo ni mwanaume kamili,” Gachagua stated, urging constituents to back leaders who resist corruption.
He also endorsed Wakili Njenga Mabati’s candidacy for the Githunguri parliamentary seat, portraying him as a community-based leader capable of advancing local interests.
Njenga, speaking at the gathering, promised to concentrate on development, youth empowerment, and enhanced service delivery if elected.
Gachagua expressed concerns about security issues in various parts of the country, especially Meru, accusing government officials of failing to protect lives and property.
He criticized Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindikiwhom he referred to as “Suprano”over what he described as selective security measures.
“People are being killed and livestock stolen, yet leadership is missing,” he remarked.
In a direct appeal to young voters, Gachagua urged Generation Z to register as voters, emphasizing participation as crucial for political change.
“Hiyo ndio njia ya kufukuza uongozi mbaya,” he added, noting that the upcoming election would be decisive.
He rejected competing political narratives, asserting that his movement had expanding support across regions including Ukambani, Western Kenya, Coast, and Rift Valley.
The Githunguri gathering represents a significant development in Gachagua’s strategy to strengthen his position in the Mt. Kenya region while establishing himself as a key figure in opposition politics.
With chants of “one term” and “DCP” dominating the event, the assembly highlighted increasing political tensions as early campaigning for 2027 begins to emerge.
Observers suggest that the coming months will be pivotal in determining whether Gachagua’s grassroots approach can evolve into a formidable national movement.