Wanga accuses Gachagua of using Gen Z 'for power'

Homabay Governor Gladys Wanga addresses a past event at Ruma Primary in Rarieda, Siaya county. [File. Standard]

Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) national chairperson Gladys Wanga has alleged that opposition leaders are using the Gen Z-led demonstrations to usurp power through the backdoor.

Ms Wanga and Rangwe MP Lilian Gogo claimed that certain opposition figures, specifically former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua are seeking to exploit the ongoing youth protests in a bid to topple President William Ruto's administration.

However, in a recent television interview, Gachagua denied the allegations, insisting that the opposition had no intention of forcing President Ruto to resign. He said the opposition leaders' clarion calls were "wantam" (a colloquial expression implying the opposition is well aware that Ruto can only be removed via the ballot in the 2027 general election."

But speaking at Asumbi Girls High School during the distribution of Sh50 million in bursary cheques disbursed through the Rangwe NG-CDF, Wanga claimed Gachagua was attempting to ride on the Gen Z protests to illegitimately seize power.

"I want to tell Gachagua that we are aware of his plan to take advantage of the demonstrations to ascend to power through the backdoor-but we will not allow it," said Wanga.

She emphasised that Kenya is a constitutional democracy, and anyone seeking the presidency must follow the prescribed legal and electoral processes.

"The next general election will be held in 2027. Let Gachagua and anyone else with presidential ambitions wait until then. Attempts to gain power through unconstitutional means will only harm our country," she added.

Wanga also raised concerns over violence during the protests, including the torching of a police station and assaults on police officers. She accused the protest organisers of seeking to plunge the nation into anarchy.

"We have never seen demonstrations where people burn police stations and attack officers. These individuals do not mean well for Kenya," she said.

She warned that continued unrest could lead to widespread lawlessness.

Dr Gogo echoed her sentiments, urging Kenyans to be cautious of leaders whose actions could destabilise the country.

She cautioned against allowing political interests to undermine national peace.