By Patriot Corps
Members of the clergy have called on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to extend an olive branch to President William Ruto in an effort to ease mounting political tensions. The Kisii County Clergy Forum, representing religious leaders from Kisii, has urged Gachagua to seek reconciliation with his boss to calm the heightened political environment.
Speaking in separate forums in Kisii and Nairobi, the clergy cautioned that the ongoing impeachment proceedings could further polarize the nation. They stressed the importance of unity among leaders, warning that continued discord could destabilize the country.
“The Deputy President must remember he is subordinate to the President. He should reach out for dialogue and reconciliation,” said Peter Morwabe, a leading member of the forum. James Ondigo added, “When you began, you led us on the right path. Do not stray now. We do not want to see a rift between you and the President, as it will divide the nation.”
The clergy also advised Gachagua to avoid turning to the courts to fight the impeachment process, arguing that doing so could escalate tensions between him and the President. Bakari Douglas, another religious leader, appealed for a sense of national responsibility. “Despite our differences, we still have a country to protect. Some interests must be set aside for the sake of Kenya’s stability.”
The impeachment motion has gained traction, with 291 Members of Parliament supporting the move to remove Gachagua from office. Public hearings on the matter are scheduled to take place at Kisii Agricultural Training Centre, giving local residents a platform to voice their opinions.
The Association of Pentecostal and Evangelical Clergy also called for forgiveness and reconciliation between the President and Deputy President, emphasizing the need to prioritize the country’s unity. Nyeri residents have been vocal as well, with public hearings scheduled at Nyeri Cultural Hall on Friday. One Nyeri resident expressed a desire for equal accountability: “We elected both of them. If one must go, they should both leave.”
In a related development, a former National Intelligence Service officer from Kirinyaga County has filed a case in the High Court in Kerugoya, challenging Gachagua’s recent remarks against NIS Director Noordin Haji. The case was filed under a certificate of urgency.
As political uncertainty looms, the clergy continue to advocate for peace, urging leaders to set aside personal interests for the good of the nation.