Wetang’ula slams Gachagua over alleged ethnic politics in US tour

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has a word with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki during an event in Kakamega on July 18, 2025/NA

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for allegedly promoting ethnic-based politics during his ongoing tour of the United States.

Speaking at women empowerment events in Busia and Kakamega counties, Wetang’ula criticised the DCP leader for addressing only one ethnic group while engaging with Kenyans in the diaspora.

According to the Speaker, leaders should always strive to champion national unity both at home and abroad.

"If you go overseas to speak to Kenyans, you must speak to all communities, not just your own. Every Kenyan abroad deserves representation, regardless of their tribe," he said.

He emphasised the need to promote inclusivity and unity, warning that Gachagua’s approach risks sowing division among diaspora communities.

Gachagua is on a two-month tour of the United States. He is using the trip to engage his supporters ahead of 2027.

He recently met members from the Agikuyu community during an event dubbed Ngema festival at Seattle.

The Speaker further noted that Gachagua’s conduct undermines the efforts by President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, who he said are working collaboratively to foster national unity and reconciliation.

"Stop promoting divisive ethnic rhetoric overseas. Our diaspora is as diverse as our nation. It includes Kenyans from every corner of the country," Wetang’ula said 

He urged political leaders to rise above tribal lines, both locally and internationally.

Speaker Wetang'ula called for accountability even as he urged security agencies to apprehend political leaders who allegedly sponsored the recent Saba Saba demonstrations.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi were among the leaders present.

"The law should not only target ordinary rioters but also those who incited the chaos," said the Speaker.

The Speaker noted that Sh6.7 billion has been put in the budget to complete key stalled roads in the region.

Wetang’ula also defended the national women empowerment initiatives, taking issue with leaders who have downplayed the programme’s significance.

He stated that the initiative is crucial in uplifting the economic status of women, particularly in rural areas where they form the backbone of local economies.

Kindiki, while rallying residents behind President Ruto's bid for a second term, noted that the Head of State had initiated plans to revive stalled projects in the region.

He noted that money has been put in the budget to complete Kakamega Level Six hospital and Bukhungu stadium, which have stalled.

"The Kenya Defense Force has taken over the Kakamega Level Six hospital and it's construction would be completed before the year ends," said the DP.

He added: "I know people from Western love football...Bukhungu stadium would be upgraded to international status to host key championships".

Mudavadi took issue with Wajir Women Representative Jehoh Fatuma Abdi over her remarks of stealing votes for President Ruto, terming them as reckless.

"This is cheap politics. If you believe in President Ruto, don't associate him with stealing votes. You're portraying him badly," said the furious Mudavadi.