In a viral social media video shared by Cornelius Rono, a social media enthusiast, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua issued a public apology to the people of Kenya and the Mt Kenya region for his role in supporting the election of President William Ruto.
“I apologize for helping you elect a dictator. I can confirm that those abductors report directly to the President,” Gachagua stated in the seven-minute footage.
The former deputy president, who was recently impeached, expressed deep regret over what he described as a rise in state-sponsored abductions and extrajudicial killings under Ruto’s administration. He also threatened to expose individuals behind these abductions, asserting that the lives of Kenyan youth are being endangered.
“Abducting these children and killing them isn’t a solution,” Gachagua emphasized, urging President Ruto to address the root causes of public anger rather than resorting to oppressive measures.
Historical Context and Call for Reflection
Gachagua compared the current administration’s actions to historical periods, noting that even during the colonial era, no government targeted children in such a manner. He urged Ruto to reflect on why his leadership is facing such intense public dissatisfaction merely two years into his term.
According to Gachagua, the William Ruto-led administration has compromised both the opposition and parliament, leaving no credible institution to hold the government accountable. As a result, he noted, young people and the church have emerged as voices of resistance.
“If young people are killed during their peaceful agitation for rights, nature will fill that vacuum with other formations,” Gachagua warned.
Growing Public Discontent in Mt Kenya
The apology comes amidst rising discontent in Mt Kenya, a region that heavily supported Ruto’s presidency. Citizens are growing increasingly vocal about issues such as governance, economic hardships, and perceived authoritarian tactics by the current regime.
The video has sparked widespread reactions across social media, with many praising Rigathi Gachagua for his courage in speaking out against the government despite being a key player in its rise to power.
This development adds to the growing tension within Kenya’s political landscape as citizens, particularly in Mt Kenya, await tangible solutions from President William Ruto.
