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| Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich |
Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has strongly condemned the growing political violence and incitement allegedly led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, particularly in Central Kenya. Ngetich raised concerns over Gachagua’s influence, accusing him of stoking tribal divisions and setting up Mount Kenya residents against government-aligned leaders.
In a statement released on Saturday, Ngetich emphasized that all leaders, irrespective of political affiliation, are entitled to their democratic rights, and no leader, including Gachagua, should be seen as a "demi-god" over the Kikuyu community. He argued that paying youths to heckle and intimidate leaders with different political views sets a dangerous precedent that could lead to violence in public gatherings across the region.
“The actions witnessed during recent political rallies, where leaders were openly heckled and attacked in the presence of the former Deputy President, signal a deeper issue. This violence is not only destructive but is being implicitly endorsed by Gachagua. His actions are dangerous and may create a volatile environment that threatens the stability and peace we’ve enjoyed in this country,” Ngetich stated.
Ngetich also expressed deep concern over what he termed as Gachagua’s deliberate attempt to alienate Central Kenya from the rest of the country, warning that such divisive tactics could lead to ethnic conflict and chaos. He called on the Kikuyu leadership to denounce this violence and to refrain from allowing themselves to be misused by power-hungry individuals who have no regard for national unity or patriotism.
The activist further warned that Gachagua’s approach to politics, which appears to be based on a divisive "us versus them" mentality, risks destabilizing the nation. He urged the Kikuyu community to resist being manipulated into divisive agendas, reminding them that the office of the President and Deputy President belongs to all Kenyans, not to any single ethnic group.
“Gachagua’s current conduct suggests he is laying the groundwork for Central Kenya to become a hostile territory for government officers and national leaders. This is a dangerous path that could lead to similar ethnic violence witnessed in the 2007/2008 post-election period. We must not allow history to repeat itself,” Ngetich warned.
The human rights activist also pointed out that Kenya's peace and unity are being threatened by the incitement and division propagated by Gachagua and his allies. He likened the former Deputy President’s political tactics to those used in colonial times, which sought to divide and conquer.
“We cannot allow ourselves to be torn apart by the same forces that have plunged other nations like Somalia, Sudan, and Liberia into years of chaos. The Kikuyu community must not be used to cleanse Gachagua’s sins and mistakes,” Ngetich added.
The activist called on the security agencies to remain vigilant in monitoring the former Deputy President's activities, expressing concern over potential plans that might further deepen the political divide and instigate violence in the region.
As the political tensions continue to rise, Ngetich urged all Kenyans to remember that unity and peace are essential for the country's progress. He emphasized that the office of the President belongs to every Kenyan, regardless of their ethnicity, and it is crucial for all citizens to stand united in upholding the values of democracy, equality, and national cohesion.
The call for action comes amid mounting concerns over the safety of political leaders and the potential for further escalation in Central Kenya, where Gachagua has been accused of using tribal rhetoric to galvanize his support base at the expense of national unity.
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