NAIROBI, Kenya- Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has sent a clear message to Kenyan leaders: it’s time to shelve succession politics and focus on improving the lives of wananchi.
Speaking in Githunguri, Kiambu County, Gachagua emphasized the importance of prioritizing development, particularly in the agriculture sector and infrastructure. His rallying cry? Less politicking, more progress.
“We must unite for the sake of development and work together. The unity we’ve been calling for in this region (Mt Kenya) is about pushing for development interests. The date of the next election is known; for now, let’s work for the people,” Gachagua urged.
Gachagua highlighted the ongoing reforms in the agriculture sector, particularly in coffee, tea, and dairy farming, areas critical to Kenya’s economy.
He called on Members of Parliament to fast-track the Co-operative Societies Bill, a key piece of legislation designed to enforce fiscal discipline in Saccos and create a sustainable cooperative sector.
Gachagua stressed the need for governance reforms in cooperative societies, urging MPs and senators to ensure that individuals of integrity are elected to lead these groups.
“In the coffee, tea, and milk sub-sectors, we’re making good progress. Our main issue now is governance in cooperative societies. I appeal to the National Assembly to fast-track the Cooperative Bill so we can have leaders of integrity,” Gachagua noted.
Addressing crowds in Kiambu Town and Ndumberi Centre, the Deputy President reassured residents that President William Ruto’s administration is committed to economic transformation.
He highlighted efforts to pay off the Ksh.7 billion debts owed by coffee farmers and increase the Cherry Fund, despite the current fiscal constraints.
Gachagua also mentioned ongoing efforts to secure new markets for Kenyan tea, a move aimed at boosting farmers’ earnings.
“The government is working within a tight fiscal space, but as the budget cycle continues, more funds will be allocated to the Cherry Fund, and the Ksh.7 billion debts of coffee growers will be paid,” Gachagua assured the public.
The Deputy President also received praise from leaders present, who acknowledged his role in supporting farmers and pushing forward the Kenya Kwanza administration’s manifesto.
“The Deputy President is the senior-most leader in the Mt Kenya region, and he must be respected. We won’t allow anyone to disrespect or insult him,” echoed MP Gathoni Wamuchomba.
