“We Make No Apologies”- Rigathi Gachagua Rejects Tribalism Accusations Over Mt Kenya Cultural Gatherings

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has strongly defended regional cultural and networking assemblies, pushing back against accusations of tribalism and declaring that the Mt. Kenya community will not apologize for embracing its heritage.

Speaking on Saturday, November 7, 2026, during the second annual Ngemi cia Watho event in Thika, Kiambu County, the former Deputy President argued that every ethnic group in Kenya enjoys the constitutional right to assemble, preserve its culture, and address regional concerns.

The event—organized by the GEMA WATHO Association—brought together legal professionals and political figures from the Gikuyu, Embu, Meru, and Akamba communities, including Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna.

Calling Out Double Standards on Regional Gatherings

Gachagua questioned why similar cultural assemblies involving other regions face no public scrutiny, pointing to meetings hosted by leaders from Western Kenya and Northern Kenya pastoralist groups.

“When the Mulembe nation, Wetangula and Musalia, calls their people together for a conversation, this is regional integration. When the people of Northern Kenya meet, they say the pastoralists are discussing their issues. When other communities meet, nobody has a problem. But when the mountaineers meet, like they have done today, we are accused of tribalism,” Gachagua stated. “Shame on them! We are who we are, and we have no apologies to make to anybody.”

Addressing President William Ruto directly, Gachagua asserted that the region’s residents are not “refugees in their own country,” promising that the Mt. Kenya electorate will unite behind a single presidential candidate in the 2027 General Election. He pledged that if elected President, he would host the event’s third edition at Sagana State Lodge.

Challenge to Lawyers Ahead of 2027 Polls

Turning to the legal fraternity, the DCP leader urged advocates to play a frontline role in protecting human rights, safeguarding constitutional integrity, and monitoring the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) processes leading up to 2027.

He called on lawyers to volunteer as election observers nationwide to scrutinize voter registration and polling day procedures:

• Electoral Integrity: “The processes are as important as the actual election. And we must work with you so that you are observers across the country to make sure William Ruto does not steal our election,” he urged.

• LSK Leadership: He challenged the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) to emulate prominent legal voices like Paul Muite, Nelson Havi, and Martha Karua in speaking out against systemic injustices.

• Legal Defense for Protesters: Gachagua commended lawyers from the region for providing pro bono services, raising cash bail, and securing the release of young people arrested during the Gen Z-led protests between 2024 and 2025.