Gachagua: I have grown thick skin to survive politics

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua makes his address during the Golden Jubilee celebrations of ACK Thika Memorial Church School in Gatanga Sub-County, Murang'a County, on August 2, 2024. [DPCS]

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has downplayed his woes as 'normal challenges' in politics.

Gachagua claimed that there many people he helped during the last General Election have turned their back on him and are plotting his downfall.

"There are many people I assisted during campaigns to clinch the seats they hold today. One of them recently had the audacity of asking why I don't recognise his work whenever I visit his constituency," the DP said.

"I asked him where he was when I was being fought. If he is not there for me, how does he expect me to be there for him. The good thing with our politics is they are a five-year cycle. When he and others like him will need my help again, I too won't be available for them," he added.

Speaking at Kimugul Primary School in Njoro during a memorial service for the late David Chepkwony, who was the spouse to Njoro MP Charity Kathambi, the DP further said that deceit, backstabbing, and betrayal is part of Kenya's politics.

"All this you are seeing today is part of our political process. Politics of betrayal, conmanship, deceit, backstabbing. All these does not change a thing. We continue to push forward," said Gachagua.

His sentiments come in the wake of alleged plot to impeach him being spearheaded by a section of Mt Kenya leaders whom he says are his juniors.

"Regardless of all these, you will continue seeing me and the President working hand in hand for Kenyans. Our economy has improved but there is still much to be done," he said.

The DP reiterated that the government was determined to find a lasting solution to the caveat imposed on private land at the foot of Mau Forest

Kathambi said that the land dispute had led to clashes between warring communities and once the caveat is lifted residents will have titles.