Former Agriculture Cabinet Minister Kipruto Arap Kirwa has condemned Deputy President Kithure Kindiki for publicly threatening Rigathi Gachagua, calling the incident “out of character” and highlighting growing hostility among Kenya’s political leaders.
Kirwa expressed alarm over Kindiki’s choice of words, particularly the phrase “nitakuvua nguo”, which implies a humiliating public stripping. He said such statements fuel tension and undermine democratic discourse.
The former minister warned that inflammatory rhetoric from top leaders risks escalating political conflicts and setting a dangerous precedent for public behavior in governance.
Kirwa’s criticism comes on the heels of a violent incident involving Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, who was reportedly attacked while campaigning for a local MCA candidate.
Natembeya and supporters have blamed National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, alleging that the attack was politically motivated and orchestrated through supporters to intimidate rivals.
The minister called on all political leaders to condemn violence, emphasizing that public office must be exercised responsibly and with respect for the rule of law.
He stressed that political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue and debate, not threats, physical attacks, or abusive language that incites fear among citizens.
Kirwa also highlighted the importance of peaceful leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections, cautioning that continued hostilities could damage Kenya’s democratic reputation.
He urged security agencies to investigate the Natembeya attack thoroughly and hold perpetrators accountable, stressing that political intimidation must never be tolerated in Kenya’s democratic process.
