Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has broken his silence following a high-profile visit by a delegation of Kipsigis leaders at his Wamunyoro residence on Wednesday, July 15, describing the meeting as both “pleasant” and politically significant.
In a statement issued after the engagement, Gachagua said he hosted grassroots leaders drawn from Kericho, Bomet, Narok, and Nakuru counties, noting that the visit reflected growing concerns among communities in the South Rift.
“I had a very pleasant day hosting grassroots leaders of the Kipsigis community… who called on me at the Wamunyoro Residence,” he said.
The delegation, which arrived in a coordinated convoy of over a dozen matatus, comprised more than 200 opinion leaders.
Their visit has since sparked debate within political circles, given the region’s perceived alignment in national politics.
Gachagua used the opportunity to express gratitude to the Kipsigis community, recalling their role in his rise to national office.
“I thanked the Kipsigis community for honoring me by voting for me as the second Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya,” he stated.
According to Gachagua, the leaders presented a range of grievances affecting their communities, painting a picture of widespread dissatisfaction at the grassroots level.
“The leaders shared with me the challenges that the community is facing: neglect by their leaders, lack of development, marginalization, grabbing of community land, extrajudicial killings, among others,” he said.
He added that the concerns raised mirror the struggles facing millions of Kenyans across the country.
“They too, like all the 55 million Kenyans, are suffering,” he noted.
The former Deputy President further signalled a possible political alignment with the group, indicating that discussions had moved beyond grievances to future plans.
“We have agreed to walk together as a people in the liberation of our country and the formation of the 6th Administration,” he said.
While the remarks did not outline specific political strategies, they point to ongoing consultations that could shape alliances ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Gachagua described the meeting as lively and symbolic, marked by cultural expression and unity.
“This was a beautiful day full of song and dance. Consultations continue!” he concluded.
The visit and subsequent statement have added momentum to discussions around shifting political dynamics, particularly efforts to build cross-regional support blocs beyond traditional strongholds.