Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused some political leaders of using money to mobilise youths for violence and political intimidation; instead, urge them to channel young people into productive employment.

Speaking at a United Alternative Government rally on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Bungoma, Gachagua referred to an alleged practice he said he had previously seen, where youths were told to block him from attending political events in the Western region.

He also appeared to aim at National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, accusing him and other unnamed leaders of promoting what he termed “politics of chaos” through financial inducements to youths.

“Wakati ingine nilitaka kukuja hapa, Wetangula akalipa vijana ati Riggy hasifike hapa… lakini leo nimeambiwa vijana wamesema hawataki ujinga,” Gachagua said.

Fight for job opportunities for youths

He added that young people should not be used for violence or political goonism, insisting that such actions are irresponsible and dangerous.

“Namwambia Wetangula, apana apatie vijana pesa kupiga wengine… ongea na Kasongo kupeleke watoto kwa jeshi wakapigane huko na maadui,” he said.

Gachagua further argued that instead of encouraging confrontations, leaders should focus on creating jobs for young people in institutions such as the Kenya Ports Authority and other public service sectors.

“Wale wengine wapeleke Kenya Port Authority wakafanye kazi huko wapate mishahara… hii maneno ya kupatia vijana pesa wauwue wengine ni ujinga,” he said.

Western leaders criticised

Gachagua has also accused Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Wetangula of protecting their “selfish interests” at the expense of the Luhya community.

Speaking at a rally in Luanda, Vihiga County, on Friday, June 12, 2026, Gachagua claimed the two leaders became complacent after President William Ruto rewarded them with key positions in government and stopped pushing for the region’s agenda.

“After Ruto gave them jobs, they felt satisfied and forgot to ask for implementation of the MoU with the president on 30 per cent government slots,” Gachagua told the crowd.