Lawyer Wahome Thuku has criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his decision to label Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Jeremiah Kioni a government “mole” within the United Opposition.
The controversy emerged after Kioni stated during a radio interview that if Gachagua chooses to run for president in 2027, leaders such as Kalonzo Musyoka and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i would have to decide their political direction.
The remarks triggered sharp reactions within opposition circles, with Gachagua accusing Kioni of attempting to divide the coalition from within.
In his remarks, Gachagua warned opposition leaders to be cautious about individuals he claimed were working secretly for President William Ruto inside the alliance.
“Gachagua has today called Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Jeremiah Kioni a mole planted in the United Opposition by William Samoei Ruto. And the former DP has warned all opposition Principals to lookout for Ruto moles in the opposition,” part of the statement said.
The former Deputy President’s allies argued that Kioni’s remarks raised questions about loyalty and commitment within the opposition camp as political alignments ahead of 2027 continue to take shape.
Reacting to the claims, Wahome Thuku faulted the increasing tendency of branding leaders as “moles” whenever they express views that differ from dominant opinions within the opposition.
“There you have it. That for Kioni who just took three mbuzi to Wamunyoro a fortnight ago,” Thuku said.
He maintained that Kioni’s comments amounted to political analysis rather than sabotage or betrayal.
“But what's interesting is that anyone who even attempts to think critically about any possible situation in the opposition is immediately branded Kasongo Mole. You are not required to analyse or even imagine,” Thuku stated.
The lawyer warned that such accusations could create fear and discourage open political discussions within opposition ranks.
According to him, healthy political movements should allow leaders and supporters to question strategy and discuss possible electoral outcomes without attracting suspicion.
Thuku also criticised what he described as growing intolerance among some opposition supporters, saying political disagreement should not automatically be treated as betrayal.
“As someone said, soon all opposition supporters will be banned from praying directly to God and anyone who will not comply will be Kasongo mole,” he added.