Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a fiery warning to President William Ruto, raising serious concerns about political intolerance, youth empowerment, and the safety of innocent citizens. His remarks come amid growing political tension, where young people have increasingly taken it upon themselves to defend leaders they believe in. According to Gachagua, responding to such support with violence is not only wrong but dangerous to the fabric of the nation.
Gachagua directly challenged President Ruto, stating that if he feels angered or threatened by young people defending their leaders, then the solution should not be to send goons to attack them, disrupt their meetings, or invade places of worship. Such actions, he argued, undermine democracy and violate spaces that should remain sacred and safe for all Kenyans, regardless of political affiliation. Political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue and lawful engagement, not intimidation and chaos.
More importantly, Gachagua emphasized the urgent need to empower the youth economically rather than weaponizing them for political violence. He noted that many of the individuals used to cause disruption are young people who could otherwise contribute positively to society if given access to meaningful and legal economic opportunities. Turning unemployed youth into instruments of violence only deepens poverty, fuels insecurity, and damages the country’s social cohesion.
He also condemned the harm inflicted on innocent Kenyans, particularly women and children, who often bear the brunt of political unrest despite having no role in political conflicts. Gachagua warned that any leadership that allows or encourages such harm risks losing moral authority and public trust. Protecting citizens, especially the most vulnerable, should always be the foremost responsibility of those in power.
Gachagua’s warning to President Ruto is not merely a political attack but a call for restraint, responsibility, and ethical leadership. It underscores the need for leaders to rise above anger and intimidation, choosing instead to empower the youth, respect democratic freedoms, and safeguard the lives and dignity of all Kenyans. As the country navigates a tense political climate, such counsel serves as a reminder that true leadership is measured not by force, but by wisdom and compassion.
