Respect Isn’t Given, It’s Earned – Ichung’wah Counters Gachagua’s Unity Push
In a public rebuke, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah has taken Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to task over his recent unity drive, urging him to abandon regional politics and focus on uniting the entire nation. Speaking candidly, Ichung’wah emphasized that as a national leader, Gachagua should transcend regional affiliations and strive for the unity of all Kenyans.
“If we truly believe that we hold offices that bestow on you the role of being a symbol of national unity, seek to unite the people of Kenya, not just the people of Mt. Kenya,” Ichung’wah asserted. He further stressed that his position as the Majority Leader requires him to represent the interests of all Kenyans, not just those from the Mt. Kenya region.
Meanwhile, in a separate event in Naivasha, DP Gachagua defended his calls for unity, insisting that his intentions are not divisive. He dismissed claims of regional favoritism, asserting that his push for unity is grounded in the “bottom-up” approach that seeks to bring the entire country together. “I am on record as a great peacemaker,” Gachagua declared, adding that his focus remains on the unity of purpose for all Kenyans.
However, tensions flared when Ichung’wah criticized Gachagua’s recent remarks suggesting that those who oppose his unity efforts should voice their concerns only within the Mt. Kenya region. Gachagua, speaking in Nyeri, had advised critics to address their grievances locally rather than in other regions like Rift Valley or Western Kenya.
Ichung’wah, however, stood firm, stating that respect cannot be demanded but must be earned. He vowed to continue speaking on behalf of all Kenyans, refusing to be silenced or confined to regional discussions. “If you are a national leader, you must earn the respect of other leaders,” Ichung’wah stated, adding that true unity within Mt. Kenya should be achieved within the broader framework of the Kenya Kwanza government.
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Respect Isn’t Given, It’s Earned – Ichung’wah Counters Gachagua’s Unity Push
