Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly criticized the resurgence of using the criminal justice system to target political opponents, a strategy he described as outdated and unacceptable. In a recent statement, Gachagua expressed his disappointment, stating that this method of managing politics had been abandoned following President William Ruto’s and his assumption of office.
Gachagua highlighted that when they took office, they assured Kenyans that the criminal justice system would no longer be weaponized for political purposes. “President William Ruto and I, on assuming Office, gave an undertaking to the People of Kenya that never again shall the criminal justice system be called upon to help in the management of politics,” he reiterated.
However, he lamented that the situation appears to have regressed, citing harassment directed at his office staff and several Members of Parliament perceived to be close to him. Gachagua revealed that for the past two months, a concerted effort to implicate his allies in criminal activities had been underway.
“I have learned of a scheme to prefer trumped-up charges against three members of my staff and the MPs for Embakasi North, Hon James Gakuya, and Embakasi Central, Hon Benjamin Gathiru Mejja Donk,” Gachagua disclosed. He added that these accusations aimed to link his team and allies to violent demonstrations in June in a bid to tarnish his name and justify potential impeachment proceedings against him.
Despite these challenges, Gachagua expressed confidence in the intelligence of the Kenyan people, affirming that they fully understand the true causes of the demonstrations and know he is not among the nation’s problems.
“Kenyans are very intelligent people. They know what factors made the People of Kenya take to the streets. Kenyans also know what the real problems in Kenya are. They surely know Rigathi Gachagua is not among them,” he stated.
The Deputy President called on law enforcement agencies to uphold professionalism, adhere to the rule of law, and refrain from engaging in political affairs. “Let our agencies remain professional, follow the rule of law, and keep off politics,” he concluded.
This statement comes amid increasing political tensions and reports of behind-the-scenes efforts to discredit Gachagua and his close associates. The Deputy President’s call underscores the importance of maintaining the independence of the criminal justice system, even as political battles intensify.
