Kwale — Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urged opposition leaders on Thursday to adhere to a bipartisan approach, emphasizing that Parliament is the proper venue for addressing their concerns. Speaking at the Africa Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa in Ngarariga, Limuru, Kiambu County, during the consecration of holy oil, the deputy president reiterated President William Ruto’s invitation for dialogue. “The President has extended an olive branch to them. They should go and discuss their issues in Parliament,” Gachagua said.
He expressed disappointment that some leaders were threatening to return to the streets despite being offered a constructive alternative. “We are going to have discussions within the confinement of the law; unfortunately, they want to go back to the streets,” he noted, adding that the government stands ready to protect lives and property should protests resume. “No one will destroy property belonging to the people of Kenya,” he affirmed.
Gachagua stressed that intimidation will not derail the government’s development agenda, which remains focused on improving the lives of Kenyans. “We are fully focused on serving the people. I have been elected to serve and that is exactly what I am doing,” he said.
He also thanked the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa for its support during the recent elections, noting that the church had faced pressure to back the opposition but remained steadfast. The deputy president promised continued governmental support for the church, describing it as critical to the nation’s development.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa echoed the call for dialogue, stating that the majority is prepared to engage with minority members in Parliament as proposed by the head of state. “We are waiting for them in Parliament, and I will be leading the team from our side for the discussion,” Ichung’wa remarked.
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