Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua found himself under political scrutiny on Tuesday evening as images of him boarding a commercial plane with his suitcase circulated online.
The second-in-command was photographed boarding a Kenya Airways flight bound for the International Scientific Conference in Mombasa, a move that some have labeled as unnecessary grandstanding.
Several leaders took to social media to criticize Gachagua’s actions, accusing him of seeking attention and employing blackmail tactics.
National Assembly Majority leader Kimani Ichung’wah tweeted, “Neither President @WilliamsRuto nor the Government of Kenya or Members of Parliament will succumb to blackmail,” emphasizing that sympathy-seeking photos and social media campaigns wouldn’t satisfy anyone’s hunger for power and money.
Kapseret Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi also weighed in, suggesting that seeking advice from a particular leader indicated a path to failure.
He remarked, “If you find yourself depending on @ngunjiriwambugu as your advisor, then just know you are doomed. It is better to be advised by a class 2 child.”
Adding to the criticism, Kimilili counterpart Didmus Barasa pointed out President William Ruto’s history of boarding commercial flights without seeking public attention. “This is the first commercial flight paid for by taxpayers, yet it’s being portrayed as a plea for sympathy.
Absolutely pointless! NO BLACKMAIL,” he expressed on social media.
The controversy surrounding Gachagua’s air travel comes amidst speculation of a rift between him and the President, with many suggesting strained ties with the ruling party and diminishing popularity in his home region, Mt. Kenya.
Gachagua has faced criticism for his remarks on tribal politics, prompting President Ruto to caution against such divisive rhetoric.
Leaders from across the nation have condemned Gachagua’s actions, warning of the dangerous implications of stirring ethnic tensions in a mature democracy.
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