By Abdihakim Siyad
GARISSA– Health Cabinet Secretary Adan Duale launched a sharp political attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua during the Garissa Cultural Festival on Friday, accusing him of promoting divisive politics and persistently criticizing President William Ruto.
Duale’s remarks come amid escalating political tension following the launch of the Democratic Change Party (DCP), a newly formed political outfit linked to Gachagua and his allies.
Speaking to festival attendees on Saturday, Duale dismissed Gachagua’s attempts to mobilize support through what he described as ethnic-based politics, warning that such tactics pose a serious threat to Kenya’s national unity.
“We are telling Gachagua to stop insulting leaders, especially the President,” said Duale. “You attack President William Ruto from morning to evening — that must stop.”
He also questioned the leadership credibility of Gachagua and other prominent figures associated with the DCP, including Martha Karua and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i.
“Do you really see those people as the hope of Kenya?” Duale asked, casting doubt on their ability to lead a united and inclusive nation.
Duale accused the DCP of attempting to “balkanize” the country along ethnic lines, framing the party as a divisive force in Kenya’s political landscape.
“Their main agenda is forming ethnicity-based parties to divide our people,” he stated. “The only ‘crime’ President Ruto committed is saying all Kenyans must be one.”
In a strong defense of Ruto’s leadership, Duale commended the president’s commitment to integrating historically marginalized regions, particularly northeastern Kenya.
“There was never a single president who spent a night in Mandera. As Somalis, we have experienced true freedom under Ruto’s administration,” he noted, highlighting the president’s focus on regional inclusivity.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Duale reaffirmed his unwavering support for Ruto’s re-election bid.
“Left or right, up or down, come 2027 — God willing — we, the pastoralist communities from 14 counties, will compete for other positions. But the presidential seat belongs to William Ruto,” he asserted.
Concluding his address, Duale emphasized the constitutional vision of unity, transcending tribal and regional identities.
“We want one indivisible Kenya where tribe, religion, or county of origin doesn’t matter. That is what our Constitution calls for — and that is exactly what President Ruto is working to achieve,” he declared.
Duale’s remarks reflect the growing political friction within the ruling coalition and signal early realignments as the country gears up for the 2027 elections.
Gachagua’s DCP movement is reportedly gaining momentum in parts of the Mt. Kenya region, prompting strong responses from Ruto’s key allies intent on consolidating power and quelling internal dissent.
