thenamlola@gmail.com

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Leader Rigathi Gachagua has warned Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leaders against informal coalition deals with President William Ruto, saying such arrangements could weaken the party and leave it at the mercy of the ruling party.

Speaking to Ramogi TV on Wednesday, Mr Gachagua cited his experience as Dr Ruto’s former deputy, saying he and his supporters were “short-changed” after trusting promises made under the table.

“When you enter a coalition, everything must be transparent. If ODM is given the deputy president seat or projects in Nyanza, it must be announced publicly,” he said.

“Anything done in secret will not be respected, as I experienced firsthand.”

Mr Gachagua warned that Nyanza voters are being courted with promises similar to those that convinced him and his people to join Dr Ruto’s administration.

“I can see another con game going on. Deception is happening. Please be aware,” he said.

The firmer Deputy President also accused Dr Ruto of betraying the people of Kenya, claiming many promises made during campaigns had not been fulfilled.

“He said he’d put money into people’s pockets. Instead, he took the little they had,” Mr Gachagua said.

“During his campaign, he promised no extrajudicial killings. Yet children were abducted and killed. He said no evictions or demolitions, yet demolitions happen every day.”

He also dismissed accusations that he had been abusive or insulting toward Dr Ruto, insisting he was merely speaking truthfully.

“I have not abused anybody. I described the situation as it is. If anyone has a problem, they can take me to court,” he said.

On coalition politics, Mr Gachagua highlighted the importance of strong political parties to protect regional interests.

“If ODM opens its strongholds to UDA, they will be swallowed. Every community has a political home. ODM is the political home for the Luo nation, DCP is the home for the mountain people,” he said.

He offered advice to ODM, urging the party to secure budget allocations for promised projects, insist on public pronouncements of any agreements, and maintain control of its electoral zones.

“Learn from my experience — don’t repeat the mistakes we made,” Mr Gachagua said.