Speaking during a recent political engagement, Gachagua cautioned ruling coalition leaders against dragging Uhuru into ongoing political debates, warning that continued attacks on the former Head of State only serve to heighten political tensions in the country.
“To the leaders of Kenya Kwanza, leave Uhuru Kenyatta alone. He is retired in office, but that does not mean he is retired in mind,” Gachagua said, in remarks that have since ignited heated discussions across the political spectrum.
The former Deputy President argued that Uhuru, having served as Kenya’s fourth President for a decade, still commands significant influence both locally and regionally.
He added that respecting former heads of state is essential for national cohesion and political maturity.
Gachagua’s comments come at a time when political rhetoric between factions allied to President William Ruto and those aligned to Uhuru Kenyatta has intensified, with both camps occasionally exchanging sharp criticism over governance, legacy issues, and shifting political alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
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Political analysts say Gachagua’s remarks may be aimed at cooling rising political temperatures, especially within the Kenya Kwanza coalition, where internal divisions have occasionally surfaced in recent months.
However, critics argue that his statement could also be interpreted as a strategic political move, signaling a possible recalibration of alliances within Kenya’s evolving political landscape.
Supporters of Uhuru Kenyatta have welcomed Gachagua’s comments, saying they reflect the need for restraint and respect for former leaders.
Others within Kenya Kwanza, however, maintain that all political actors remain fair game in public discourse.
The remarks have now added fresh fuel to ongoing debates about the role of retired presidents in active politics, especially in a highly polarized environment where past leaders continue to wield influence behind the scenes.
As the political atmosphere continues to shift, Gachagua’s statement has once again placed Uhuru Kenyatta at the center of Kenya’s national conversation, raising questions about influence, legacy and the boundaries of political engagement after office.
