Deputy President Kindiki Forgives Gachagua, Calls for Peace Among Mt. Kenya Leaders

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has publicly forgiven Rigathi Gachagua after months of heated exchanges. He made the announcement during a tour of Meru, urging peace and unity among leaders from the Mt. Kenya region.

Kindiki explained that as an elder of the Njuri Ncheke, he cannot engage in insults or hostility with fellow leaders. “I do not have any problem with my brothers, who are also leaders. Even those who are insulting me, I have forgiven unconditionally,” he said. “I do not want to engage in heated exchanges with my brothers. As an elder, I know we must prioritise peace and harmony.”

The Deputy President emphasised that respect among leaders is crucial. He assured the public that he will not respond to ridicule or imitations by Gachagua. “I will not insult him. I will not respond to the insults because, as an elder, you cannot insult your brother and leader,” he added.

The move comes amid rising political tension in the country, especially between the current Kenya Kwanza administration and the opposition. Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), has repeatedly criticised and mocked Kindiki during public gatherings. Despite this, Kindiki maintained that political differences should not affect personal and communal relationships.

Kindiki also highlighted that all leaders visiting the region have the right to express themselves freely, without intimidation. He said, “We will still remain as one family after leadership.” The Deputy President’s stance reflects his commitment to Njuri Ncheke values, which stress dialogue, unity, and elder leadership.

Political analysts note that the move could ease tensions within Mt. Kenya ahead of the 2027 General Election. ODM is pushing to succeed Kenya Kwanza, with party leaders highlighting the need for a strong and broad-based leadership arrangement. Despite these pressures, Kindiki has prioritised peace over political rivalry, signalling a rare show of restraint in the region’s politics.

The Deputy President’s gesture is being hailed by local leaders as a step toward stabilising political discourse and promoting respect across party lines. His message is clear: unity and harmony come before partisan conflicts.