Gachagua maintains he stood as Sakaja’s political guarantor in Nairobi

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly defended his role as a political guarantor for Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, while also addressing allegations of tribalism and claims of a plot to impeach him.

In an extensive interview on Citizen TV, DP Gachagua spoke candidly about his relationship with Governor Sakaja, his style of leadership, and ongoing political tensions.

Mr Gachagua clarified his position as a guarantor for Mr Sakaja, likening it to guaranteeing a bank loan.

"A guarantor is like when you go to a bank and you want to take a loan, and you don’t have security somebody else can come and offer his title deed for you," Mr Gachagua said.

The Deputy President explained that during the 2022 election campaigns, he had assured Nairobi residents that Mr Sakaja would represent their business interests, specifically those in areas like Wakulima Market.

However, the DP revealed that some of these very constituents are now holding him accountable for perceived issues in Sakaja’s governance. 

"As a guarantor of Governor Sakaja, they have sought me out and asked me questions. That’s why I went there to listen to them," he said.

Although he does not have direct authority over county governments, Mr Gachagua emphasized that by bringing these concerns to light, he has fulfilled his role.

“The fact that the matter has been brought to light is good enough. It’s upon him [Sakaja] now to deal with that challenge," the second in command added, affirming his continued support for the governor, but stressing the need for the issues raised to be addressed.

Beyond his relationship with Mr Sakaja, the Deputy President also took the opportunity to address criticism of his public use of his mother tongue, Kikuyu. 

Critics have accused the Deputy President of promoting tribalism by speaking Kikuyu during public engagements, particularly when rallying support for Sakaja in Nairobi.

"I spoke in my mother tongue when I was looking for votes for Governor Sakaja. He didn’t have a complaint, he was quite happy," he explained. 

He argued that the language used should serve the purpose of communication and understanding. 

"When I was looking for votes, I spoke in a language that people understood better. I don’t know why people are having a problem now that elections have been won," he said, adding that speaking in his native language is not incompatible with his national leadership role.

"The fact that I’m Deputy President does not diminish my heritage. My language still remains intact," Mr Gachagua insisted, underscoring that connecting with voters in a language they understand is crucial, especially when addressing localised concerns.

The interview also took a dramatic turn when he alleged that there are efforts underway to remove him from office.

According to the Deputy President, certain individuals have been offered money to orchestrate his impeachment.

While he did not provide specific names or amounts, Mr Gachagua alluded to what he described as "a well-kept secret" within political circles. 

He expressed confidence that more information on these plots would emerge in due time.

"These things will come out in the fullness of time," he said.

Mr Gachagua suggested that his leadership style being too focused on the people may be a reason for the alleged plots against him.

"They say that I’m too people-centred and that I’m listening to people too much," he said.

However, the Deputy President maintained that listening to the concerns of the public is a key aspect of his leadership.

"Leadership is about the people, and for you to be a good leader, you need to listen to the people," he emphasized.

As DP Gachagua navigates both political and public criticism, his comments shed light on the internal and external pressures facing Kenya’s leadership.