Keep off government plans for now, Rigathi Gachagua tells Raila

Gachagua reiterated that Kenya Kwanza government was keen on partnering with stakeholders and consultative engagements.

"Continuous engagement is the new normal and we are keen to entrench this. With engagement, we believe a good idea will lead to a better idea that will lead to the best idea," he said.

Speaking during the launch of the National Drought Response Plan, in Lagdera, Garissa County on Monday, the DP said the government was open to partnering with anyone who supports their development initiatives.

"We welcome support from the West, East, North, South or even Centre. The West is supporting us and we are happy. We will continue working with the West," he said.

Gachagua was responding to Raila's remarks that the Kenya Kwanza government was cosying up too much to the West.

"We will make friends with everyone. We cannot be advised by those who misled the former President. When they advised him the country found itself in debt, and pumped Sh200 billion into BBI and even more in the failed Azimio project," he said.

He urged international partners to work with the government to find long-term solutions to perennial challenges such as the ongoing drought.

The DP urged private investors and humanitarian organisations to work with the government under the Public-Private Partnership to construct dams and water pans in Arid and Semi-Arid regions.

Gachagua said the Government will continue to engage with all development partners as it implements its manifesto.