Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sharply criticized his successor, Kithure Kindiki, over remarks regarding the upcoming Ol Kalou by-election, terming them as premature and insensitive.
Speaking during the requiem mass of the late Ol Kalou MP, David Kiaraho, Gachagua faulted Kindiki for raising political discussions before the legislator had been laid to rest. The event, attended by President William Ruto and other leaders, was meant to honor the life of the fallen MP.
Gachagua expressed concern that bringing up the by-election at such a solemn moment was not only inappropriate but also a disservice to the Mt Kenya region. He emphasized the need for leaders to show respect to the deceased and their families by avoiding political campaigns during mourning periods.
According to Gachagua, the focus should have remained on celebrating the life and legacy of the late MP rather than shifting attention to succession politics. His remarks drew reactions from mourners and leaders present, with some nodding in agreement while others remained reserved.
The criticism has since stirred political debate, highlighting growing tensions and differing approaches among top leaders on matters of timing and political messaging.
As the country continues to mourn the late MP, the incident has once again raised questions about the intersection of politics and respect during national moments of grief.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his criticism of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, stating that discussing succession politics before the burial of a leader goes against the traditions of the Mt Kenya community.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his criticism of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, stating that discussing succession politics before the burial of a leader goes against the traditions of the Mt Kenya community.
Speaking during the requiem mass of the late Ol Kalou MP, David Kiaraho, Gachagua emphasized that within the Gikuyu community, it is considered a taboo to talk about inheritance or leadership succession before the deceased is laid to rest.
According to Gachagua, the community places immense respect on the dead, and any political conversations—especially those touching on succession—should only come after burial.
In a strongly worded statement delivered in Kiswahili, he directly called out Kindiki:
“Mimi nimeona Professor Kindiki unetukosea kama jamii. Hii jamii tuko na heshima na mtu yeyote ambaye amekufa, na sisi hatuwezi kuongea mambo ya urithi kabla hajazikwa. Umefanya makosa huko Tharaka kuongea mambo ya by-election kama Kiaraho hajazikwa.”
His remarks appeared to resonate with a section of mourners, reflecting the deep cultural values attached to death and mourning rites in the region.
The comments have since sparked wider debate across the country, with some leaders and citizens supporting Gachagua’s stance on cultural respect, while others view the issue through a political lens.
The exchange highlights the delicate balance leaders must maintain between political engagement and cultural sensitivity, especially during moments of national mourning.
