Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was forced to calm a crowd that began heckling during a roadside rally attended by both himself and President William Ruto.
The heckling started after Thika town Member of Parliament, Alice Wahome, expressed her intentions to challenge Kiambu Governor Kimani wa Matangi in the 2027 general elections.
“Kiambu residents embarrassed me. Heckling in front of the king has never happened in Mt Kenya,” said Gachagua.
He condemned the behavior, comparing it to that of the ODM (Orange Democratic Movement) party, stating, “That is ODM behavior; we will not accept that kind of behavior. Ruto is our King, we must respect him.”
President William Ruto’s development tour of Mt. Kenya has been marred by political tensions among local leaders in Kiambu County, leading to confrontations between them.
To ease the situation, President Ruto called for political leaders to focus on their responsibilities and provide essential services to the public. He also assured the country of improving economic conditions.
“Let’s calm down on political matters, particularly those of 2027. As your leader, I ask you to remain calm and patient as things progress. I want to assure you that I will hold a meeting to plan a peaceful approach to politics and end the fighting,” said President Ruto.
During his visit, Ruto commissioned the launch of the construction of the Uplands-Kiijabe-Maai Mahiu road in Lari Constituency, Kiambu County. The incident during the roadside rally underscores the importance of respecting leaders and maintaining decorum during public gatherings.
