While in Meru for the Coffee Conference, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua made derogatory remarks referring to the proposal put forth by Meru leaders to create an additional county as “stupidity.”
Such a comment is not only disrespectful but also undermines the democratic process and the genuine concerns of the people.
Gachagua’s comments were made during a gathering with representatives from various Media outlets in Meru, where he had an opportunity to engage in a constructive conversation on the matter.
The proposal to establish an independent county for the Nyambene people cannot simply be dismissed as stupidity, unless Mr. Gachagua has a different understanding of the term.
It is important to note that several other communities across the country have raised similar proposals, and we have not heard Gachagua refer to them in such disparaging terms.
This inconsistency raises questions about his motives and whether his comments were influenced by personal or political interests.
It is evident that Gachagua has been striving to become the next kingpin of the Mount Kenya region.
During the interview, he devoted a significant portion of his time to attacking President Uhuru Kenyatta instead of addressing the concerns of the Meru people.
One cannot help but wonder if Gachagua mistakenly associated the Nyambene County proposal with former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s initiatives, thereby provoking his dismissive response.
Mr. Gachagua needs to recognize the importance of active listening and refraining from hasty judgments. Meru is a unique community with its own distinct challenges and aspirations, different from those of Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Kiambu or Kisumu.
Dismissing the concerns of the Nyambene people without giving them a fair chance to present their case is unjust and undermines the principles of inclusivity.
At the face value, the cry by the Nyambene people is one of equity and fairness in the allocation of resources and representation.
They deserve a platform where they can articulate their concerns and explain the reasons behind their proposal. Clearly, that platform cannot be led by the Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, given his dismissive and derogatory attitude towards the proposal.
By belittling the aspirations of an entire community, Mr. Gachagua not only undermines the credibility of his position as a public servant but also disregards the voices of those he is meant to represent.
In conclusion, the people of Nyambene and the entire Meru County deserve an apology from the Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. His remarks are both unwarranted and disrespectful.
Meru leaders advocating for an independent county for the Nyambene people deserve an opportunity to present their case, and Gachagua’s dismissive comments only hinder the progress of meaningful dialogue.
It is imperative that Mr. Gachagua reflects on his approach and learns to listen more.
The author is a Digital Strategist. He occasionally writes on matters Technology, Politics and Health
