Rigathi Gachagua. Photo/Courtesy
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Wednesday publicly rebuked former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of politicising Kenya’s worsening drought response and questioning his credibility to lecture on mitigation.
The exchange comes as drought and food insecurity intensify across parts of northern and arid counties.
In a terse statement posted on X, Kindiki took aim at Gachagua’s recent criticisms of the government’s drought interventions, alleging that relief efforts are being undermined by partisan attacks rather than constructive engagement.
“You were sacked as a District Officer (DO) for stealing food meant for drought relief, you have no moral authority to give lectures on drought mitigation,” Kindiki said, citing Gachagua’s earlier civil service dismissal over mismanagement of relief supplies in the 1990s.
Kindiki’s response follows Gachagua’s public remarks challenging the scale and pace of government support to drought‑hit communities, particularly in northern Kenya.
The former deputy president has argued that the KSh 4 billion drought fund falls short of the needs of some 3.3 million affected Kenyans, calling instead for President William Ruto to declare the crisis a national disaster to unlock broader support.
Defending the current response, Kindiki said the government has already disbursed over KSh 10 billion in emergency food, water, medical supplies and livestock support across 23 counties and is prioritising targeted and timely distribution.
He urged critics to support relief operations rather than use them for political gain.
Political analysts say the sharp exchange reflects rising tensions within Kenya’s leadership as drought conditions persist and public scrutiny intensifies.
Gachagua’s accusations have resonated with some drought‑affected communities and civil society groups, who argue that more decisive action and accountability are needed.
Kindiki maintained that the administration’s focus remains on relief and resilience, emphasising collaboration with counties, partners and humanitarian agencies to mitigate the crisis and avert famine, even as the broader political narrative plays out.