Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has launched a verbal attack on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, referring to him as a “cry baby.”
Sakaja, who appeared to derive pleasure from the latest troubles facing the Deputy President, claimed that some individuals had faced difficulties under Gachagua’s leadership.
The city boss pointed out that during his two-year tenure as governor, he had endured intimidation, insults, and threats from the Deputy President.
Mocking Gachagua’s recent assertion that he had spent time praying and fasting on Mount Kenya, Sakaja remarked, “Some of us have endured threats and intimidation for two years since our election. Yet, after just one week of criticism, you’re crying like a baby.”
He continued, “You’re here lamenting after just one week, sometimes disappearing from the public eye under the guise of fasting and praying on Mount Kenya.”
Sakaja called on Gachagua to show respect to all elected leaders, regardless of age or political affiliation.
“Respect all leaders, whether young or old. Even if you don’t respect some of us, at least honor the voters who entrusted us with their mandate,” he emphasized.
Furthermore, Sakaja challenged the Deputy President to vie for the Nairobi County gubernatorial seat in the 2027 elections if he believed current leaders were inadequate.
“If you believe we aren’t capable leaders, wait until 2027 and contest the Nairobi County seat,” he asserted.
Strained Relationship
The relationship between the President and his Deputy has gradually deteriorated, with speculation suggesting that Gachagua is considering forming a new political entity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
These assertions, reported by the Daily Nation, have provoked a response from the Deputy President’s office, with the Head of Communications Njeri Rugene demanding an apology and retraction, labeling the reporting as malicious and ill-intentioned.
During the weekend when President William Ruto was expected to return to the country from a four-day visit to the US, Gachagua was conspicuously absent from the reception party.
Instead, the National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichungwa, Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, and Interior PS Raymond Omollo were among the dignitaries present to welcome President Ruto back.
Politically, this absence sent a clear message that the relationship between the two top leaders of the ruling UDA party had soured, indicating a lack of cohesion.
