Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has responded strongly to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua following criticism of the government’s handling of the ongoing drought in Northern Kenya.
In a post shared on X on Wednesday, Kindiki dismissed Gachagua’s remarks, saying the region required tangible support during his tenure in office rather than commentary after leaving government.
“Talk is cheap. Northern Kenya needed your goodwill and solidarity when you held big office, not now when you are out,” Kindiki stated.
Sharp Exchange Over Drought Response
The exchange marks the latest escalation in a growing public spat between the two leaders. Gachagua had questioned aspects of the government’s drought response, drawing reactions from senior officials.
Kindiki, however, defended the administration’s efforts, insisting that leadership is demonstrated through action, not rhetoric.
In a separate post, the Deputy President made a more direct and personal allegation against his predecessor.
“You were sacked as a District Officer (DO) for stealing food meant for drought relief; you have no moral authority to give lectures on drought mitigation,” Kindiki wrote.
The claim has added a sharper tone to the political fallout between the current and former deputy presidents.
The disagreement comes at a time of heightened political activity as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election. Northern Kenya remains a politically significant region, particularly in discussions around drought response, development, and national inclusion.
As the political exchanges intensify, attention is likely to shift to how the government continues to address the ongoing drought crisis and whether the debate will remain focused on policy or further descend into personal attacks.
The latest remarks underscore the widening rift between President William Ruto’s administration and sections of the opposition aligned with Gachagua, signalling that the political season is already heating up
