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Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi has warned Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of engaging in divisive tribal politics.

The MP took to his X account on Monday, August 26, 2024, to voice his concerns, suggesting that Gachagua’s actions could lead to his impeachment.

Amisi highlighted the evolving political landscape in the central region, where he believes voters are no longer focused on electing leaders based solely on tribal affiliations.

He emphasized that the Kikuyu community, which has historically held significant influence in Kenyan politics, is now more interested in supporting a president who will serve their interests, regardless of their ethnic background.

“Our DP, @rigathi, should realize that Kikuyus no longer care whether one of their own is a president. They have had many at the top. They only care for a good president who can take care of their interests. In 2027, the central region is ready and willing to support other communities for the presidency, even if it is not #Ruto. But definitely, it shall not be Gachagua,” Amisi stated.

The Saboti MP further condemned the Deputy President’s approach, labelling it as backwards and out of touch with the aspirations of the new generation.

According to Amisi, young Kenyans are increasingly rejecting tribal politics, seeing it as a hindrance to the country’s progress.

“Tribal politics is backward, and the new generation will never accept it from now henceforth. It adds no value to the progress of this nation. If you continue this tribal narrative, members will have no choice but to impeach you,” Amisi warned.

Our DP , @rigathi should realise that Kikuyus no longer care whether one of their own is a president. They have had many at the top.They only care for a good president who can take care of their interest . In 2027 central region are ready and willing to support other communities…

— Hon. Caleb Amisi, MP (@Honcalebamisi) August 26, 2024

Not tribalist

The Deputy President has been involved in several controversies concerning tribal politics, which have led to public calls for him to cease engaging in such divisive rhetoric.

One notable instance occurred in March 2023, when Gachagua made remarks during a public rally that seemed to favour the Kikuyu community, from which he hails. He suggested that the government should prioritize helping people from the Kikuyu tribe, particularly in the allocation of government resources and positions. His comments were met with widespread criticism, with many accusing him of promoting tribalism and undermining national unity. Various political leaders and civil society organizations urged him to focus on the interests of all Kenyans, rather than advancing the agenda of a single ethnic group.

In June 2024, Gachagua addressed criticisms labelling him a tribalist due to his advocacy for the “one man, one vote, one shilling” revenue-sharing formula.

Gachagua emphasized that his stance on the formula is merely his personal opinion and not something he intends to impose on the Kenyan public.

“As a Kenyan citizen, the Constitution grants me the right to express my views, even as Deputy President. My opinion is not a directive, and I only seek to persuade others that this formula could be effective,” he explained.

Gachagua also acknowledged that other leaders hold differing views on the matter, which he respects as their constitutional right.

“Some leaders accuse me of being a tribalist, possibly because my opinion resonates with people from my home region,” he noted.