Rigathi Gachagua Pledges Support for President Ruto and Calls for Action Against Illicit Alcohol in Mt. Kenya
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently spoke out about his support for President William Ruto, despite his recent impeachment.
During a public speech in Kirinyaga County, he highlighted key issues, especially the need to control illicit alcohol in Mt. Kenya. Here’s a breakdown of Gachagua’s main points.
1. Gachagua Supports President Ruto’s Work
- Commitment to Ruto’s Leadership: Gachagua assured that he would allow President Ruto the space he needs to work for the country over the next three years.
- Focus on Development: Despite his impeachment, Gachagua expressed his continued support for the President’s agenda, indicating a willingness to work collaboratively for the country’s progress.
2. Concerns Over Illicit Alcohol in Mt. Kenya
- Rising Illicit Alcohol Sales: Gachagua shared concerns about a resurgence in illegal alcohol sales in the Mt. Kenya region, an issue he had previously tackled.
- Appeal to Current Leaders: He urged the current administration to prioritize the fight against illicit alcohol to protect the youth in the region from the harmful effects of illegal brews.
- Recommendation to Delegate: Gachagua suggested that President Ruto delegate the responsibility of handling this issue to the new Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki, to ensure sustained efforts.
ALSO READ: Former Deputy President Gachagua: “It Feels Good to Be Home”
3. Calls for the Passage of the Coffee Bill
- Urgent Approval of Coffee Bill 2023: Gachagua asked lawmakers to pass the Coffee Bill 2023 swiftly, just as they expedited his impeachment.
- Improving Farmer Payments: He emphasized the need for government action on delayed payments owed to coffee farmers, calling for an increase in funds allocated to farmers from Ksh5 million to Ksh7 million.
4. Gachagua’s Message to Mt. Kenya Leaders
- Appeal for Consistency: Gachagua called on Mt. Kenya leaders, particularly those who supported his impeachment, to show the same urgency in passing beneficial bills as they did in his removal.
- Support for Regional Farmers: By accelerating efforts on bills and disbursements, he emphasized, they would be providing critical support to the coffee farmers in the region.
5. New Deputy President Sworn In
- Kithure Kindiki’s Swearing-In: Gachagua’s comments came shortly after Kithure Kindiki was sworn in as the new Deputy President in a ceremony at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre.
- Message of Resilience: On the same day, Gachagua posted on social media, sharing a moment of quality time with his family, signaling his continued resolve and focus on family.
ALSO READ: Kindiki Assures Ruto: ‘I Won’t Let You Down’
Gachagua’s statements reveal a commitment to both national and regional issues, urging those in power to maintain focus on the needs of ordinary Kenyans, especially within Mt. Kenya.