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The Nairobian

Gachagua created more enemies than allies, says Duale

Politics

By Stephanie Wangari | Oct 31, 2024

**Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale.** [File, Standard]

Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has criticised impeached Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of creating enemies instead of building alliances.

Appearing on Citizen TV on Wednesday night, Duale suggested that Gachagua could have preserved his political standing by prioritising loyalty and coalition-building.

"When you're in a high position, you don’t bring yourself down to ground level; you stay elevated. Gachagua invested more in creating enemies than allies. It’s unprecedented in Kenya's legislative history for 282 members to vote for a motion," said Duale.

The Environment CS averred that loyalty, especially to President William Ruto, should have been Gachagua's guiding principle.

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"Riggy G is a good man, but he needed to be loyal — loyal to his friend, to the Constitution, and to the people of Kenya," he added.

Duale also advised leaders facing impeachment to act promptly, citing former leaders who faced long-term political bans after Senate impeachments.

"My advice to any leader facing impeachment is this: if you want longevity in politics, make a decision before the Senate rules on your case. Otherwise, you’ll face the same fate as former governors Sonko and Waititu. Once the Senate and court uphold an impeachment, you're barred from office for 10 years. That’s a significant amount of time in politics, especially for someone at the former DP's age."

He drew a contrast between President Ruto and Gachagua, praising Ruto’s accessibility and hands-on leadership.

"President Ruto listens and is one of the most accessible presidents I’ve worked with. He operates at ground level, which is why he won’t face impeachment. Those saying 'kufa dereva, kufa makanga' are just naysayers," he argued.

Presidential Term Limit Extension

Addressing Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei's proposed bill to extend the presidential term from five to seven years, Duale dismissed its chances, predicting strong opposition.

"It won’t even pass its first reading in the Senate. Kenyans shouldn’t worry, as it would require a referendum. Cherargei needs a two-thirds majority in both the Senate and National Assembly, but he won’t even get ten supporters. Our party’s stance is clear. Why does he want seven years? He has to convince us," he concluded.