Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua faced further tough questions from journalists during a heated media engagement, this time over his relationship with the Luo community.
A journalist directly challenged Gachagua to clarify whether he genuinely supports Luo people, pointing to what they described as contradictions in his political record.
The reporter noted that within his Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), Gachagua had not appointed a Luo individual to a prominent leadership position.
The question also referenced his time in government, where he reportedly pushed for the powerful Cabinet Secretary for Finance position to remain within the Mt Kenya region instead of being allocated to Nyanza.
In response, Gachagua defended himself, insisting that the claims were misleading. He revealed that a woman from Kisumu holds a senior position within the DCP, arguing that this demonstrates inclusivity within his party structures.
On the issue of the Finance docket, Gachagua maintained that his position was guided by a prior political agreement made during the 2022 election period.
According to him, the deal stipulated that the Ministry of Finance would be allocated to the Mt Kenya region as part of a broader power-sharing arrangement that contributed to President William Ruto’s victory.
His remarks have sparked renewed debate on ethnic balance and power-sharing in government, with critics questioning whether such agreements undermine national unity.
Supporters, however, argue that political negotiations are a normal part of coalition-building in Kenya’s electoral process.
The exchange highlights the growing scrutiny facing Gachagua as he continues to defend his political choices and reposition himself amid shifting alliances.