'The mountain is not lost,' says Kabogo

Information, Communications, and Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo has assured that the Mount Kenya region remains unaffected by shifting political alliances.

Speaking on Citizen TV on Monday, Kabogo dismissed reports suggesting that Mt Kenya voters are shifting their support due to the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

“I don’t think you can say the mountain is unhappy because of Rigathi Gachagua being impeached,” Kabogo stated.

He further urged voters not to be misled by certain leaders, noting the importance of focusing on development plans.

“The mountain is not lost. It is a very interesting place. I’m telling them we deserve these services, but we must be careful how we play this game,” he added.

Kabogo also weighed in on Gachagua’s impeachment, saying that the deputy president had enough time to clarify his position.

“I participated in discussions just a day before he was brought to Parliament, and I asked, ‘You keep saying, don’t touch the mountain. What exactly is happening? You’re inside and saying don’t touch the mountain.’ He didn’t explain, but I still believe he had a chance to clarify.” 

Appointment links

On speculation about his recent appointment, which some attribute to the Ichaweri reunion and former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s influence, Kabogo denied any connection. His appointment, alongside Mutahi Kagwe and Lee Kinyanjui, followed President William Ruto’s visit to Kenyatta’s home in Ichaweri, Gatundu.

“Kenya is a vibrant nation, full of rumors. People just make up things. My appointment came right after the President visited Ichaweri…I’m one hundred percent sure it had nothing to do with it,” he said. 

He also denied any recent communication with ex-President Kenyatta, saying it had been some time since they last spoke.

“The only call I received the day before was from President Ruto, who said, I’m looking at things, and I’m working on something. He didn’t say anything else. The next thing I knew; I saw the news. I was very surprised,” said Kabogo. 

The newly appointed CS vowed to focus on his new role despite the uncertainty surrounding cabinet reshuffles within Ruto’s administration.

“I don’t know for how long. It’s the prerogative of the appointing authority, the President, to either keep you, move you, reshuffle you, or give you a red card. For now, I hope there are no yellow or red cards. I should have a chance to work,” he added.

He also dismissed reports suggesting the Ministry plans to shut down social media over misuse, reaffirming citizens' right to freedom of expression.