Former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has launched a sharp rebuttal against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua following accusations linking him to violence in Olkalou, escalating a growing political rift in the Mt Kenya region.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Kuria dismissed Gachagua’s allegations as baseless, accusing him of repeatedly making claims without evidence.
“Even if you accuse me 1,000 times of planning violence… without proof it will not wash,” Kuria said, referencing Gachagua’s remarks earlier in the day during a public event in Olkalou.
Revisiting Past Political Differences
Kuria used the response to revisit longstanding disagreements with Gachagua, particularly over the formation of political alliances ahead of the 2022 General Election.
He claimed he had previously advised against entering coalitions without a strong regional party, warning that such a move would weaken Mt Kenya’s bargaining power. According to Kuria, his position was dismissed at the time.
“I warned you we as a community do not go into a coalition without our party… you fought me,” he said, adding that efforts to accommodate multiple parties in the region were resisted.
In a metaphor-laden critique, Kuria argued that entering political negotiations without leverage was akin to “going to a dowry negotiation while boarding the bridegroom’s Mercedes,” suggesting a lack of strategic independence.
Hands-Off Approach Moving Forward
Despite the criticism, Kuria signaled a shift in strategy, indicating he would not directly challenge Gachagua’s growing political influence in the region.
“You can have your candidates all over Mt Kenya. I will not even vie for any seat myself,” he stated, in what appears to be a temporary withdrawal from active electoral contestation.
However, he issued a cautionary note, warning that the current political trajectory could have consequences.
“It will end up in tears,” Kuria said, without elaborating on the specifics of the warning.
Call for Political Truce
In a softer tone toward the end of his statement, Kuria appealed for space and restraint, urging Gachagua to ease political pressure.
“Now that you are the undisputed king, cut me the slack and give me some peace. We watch you for the next 12 months,” he added.