South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro has publicly criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for opposing his appointment as Majority Chief Whip in Parliament following the 2022 general elections.
In a detailed Facebook post, Osoro accused Gachagua of questioning his age, capacity, and community during the selection process.
Addressing Gachagua directly, Osoro stated that from the outset, he faced skepticism as a young leader.
“You openly opposed my appointment as Chief Whip. You questioned my age, my capacity, and even my community — asking what numbers we had brought. You dismissed me as ‘too young’ and from a ‘small tribe,’” Osoro wrote.
He added that he now serves confidently in the position, demonstrating that age or ethnic background does not define leadership capability.
Osoro further challenged the notion that leadership is reserved for older politicians, highlighting his early entry into national politics.
“I entered Parliament in my early 30s. By the time you were in your 50s, we sat in the same House. Is it my fault that I started earlier? Is youth now a crime?” he questioned.
He emphasized that young leaders are in public office to legislate, lead, and deliver, not to engage in symbolic displays of loyalty or ethnic politics.
Criticizing Gachagua’s approach to national leadership, Osoro argued that ethnic arithmetic and village supremacy politics contributed to political failures in the past.
He distanced himself from such practices, describing his focus on national development and service delivery.
“I am NATIONAL. I serve as Chief Whip of the Majority in the National Assembly of Kenya. While others hold roadside rallies trading insults, I am building roads, launching projects, and empowering my constituents,” he said.
Osoro highlighted ongoing projects in his constituency, noting that he will host President William Ruto next month to commission key developments.
Reflecting on his personal journey, he recalled overcoming early hardship, including losing his parents at a young age, and described his rise to national leadership as a testimony to resilience and divine favor.
Osoro urged Gachagua to refrain from mentioning him in rallies and dragging him into village politics.
“Stop attempting to belittle young leadership. I am busy serving the nation. History remembers builders, not noise-makers. Give me space to work,” he stated firmly.