Senior Economic Advisor Moses Kuria has strongly criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his alleged plans to lead protests should Chief Justice Martha Koome be removed from office.
On Monday evening, the former Public Service Cabinet Secretary accused Gachagua of advancing a self-serving political agenda by encouraging protests in the Mt. Kenya region while other areas focused on development.
Kuria expressed concerns over calls to mobilize young people for demonstrations, arguing that it was reckless and dangerous.
“I have no problem with anyone pursuing their political ambitions, but telling young men from my region to take to the streets and risk being shot while other regions focus on development is selfish,” Kuria posted on X.
He further challenged Gachagua to involve his own children in the protests before urging Mt. Kenya residents to participate.
Gachagua’s Threats of Mass Action
Kuria’s remarks came just hours after Gachagua vowed to lead demonstrations if Chief Justice Koome was arrested or removed from office.
During an interview with Kikuyu radio stations on Sunday, February 9, Gachagua likened Koome’s situation to his own impeachment, vowing not to remain silent if she faced similar treatment.
“They removed me from office, and now they want to chase Martha Koome in the same manner. We will not sit back; if they remove her, we will take to the streets and block roads,” Gachagua declared.
He accused President William Ruto’s administration of attempting to manipulate the Supreme Court ahead of the 2027 elections.
“All these petitions against the Supreme Court are part of the government’s plan to install a judiciary that serves their interests,” he claimed.
Gachagua also revealed that young people in the Mt. Kenya region had expressed regret for not protesting when he was ousted, implying that they were now prepared to take action in defense of Koome.
A Political Rift in Mt. Kenya
The exchange between Kuria and Gachagua highlights the deepening political divisions within the Mt. Kenya region. While Kuria has remained aligned with President Ruto’s government, Gachagua has positioned himself as a vocal critic, accusing the administration of sidelining the region.
As the political landscape continues to shift, it remains to be seen whether Gachagua’s call for protests will gain traction or if leaders like Kuria will succeed in urging restraint.
