Northern Kenya leaders call for Deputy President's resignation amidst national unity concerns

Leaders from Northern Kenya have called for immediate resignation of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over claims of undermining President William Ruto.

The furious leaders who comprised of current and present leaders said Rigathi's statement about the invasion of Parliament an hour after his boss had addressed the country was unwarranted.

Over 20 leaders, led by Fafi MP Farah Maalim and his Ijara counterpart Abdi Ali Abdi, condemned Gachagua for attacking Noordin Haji, the head of the National Intelligence Service.

"The Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has brought dishonour to the presidency by showing disrespect to his boss. He should apologise to Kenyans and resign, "said  Maalim.

They defended Haji against accusations of incompetence levelled against him by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Gachagua on Wednesday evening while breaking his silence over the deadly aftermath that followed invasion of Parliament by protesters on Tuesday blamed Haji for not averting the deaths.

On Thursday, the angry lawmakers termed Rigathi's comments as egregious and a clear attack on his integrity that also seeks to undermine the spirit of national unity.

According to the leaders, it cannot be imagined that the person who has served the country with distinction and dedication in critical government agencies can be attacked by such unfounded accusations to tarnish his reputation and undermine his immense efforts in maintaining national security.

"Noordin Haji has consistently demonstrated his commitment to national safety and integrity. His leadership at the NIS and the office of the DPP has been characterized by professionalism and a deep sense of duty," said Maalim.

In his dismay over Gachagua's outburst, Maalim said attacking Haji's character and calling for his resignation without any substantive grounds is not only unjust but also harmful to the national interests of the country.

"The call for the resignation remains baseless and seems to be motivated by backward ethnic bigotry and prejudice rather than legitimate concern for national security and enhanced governance," argued Maalim.

To them,the scathing attack and troubling sentiments by the Deputy President are not only uncalled for but also a direct affront to the larger Somali community which forms an integral part of Kenya’s socio-economic fabric.

Ijara lawmaker Abdi Ali Abdi warned the DP that his statements are reckless and could polarise the country further.

The leaders also said the attacks now raises concern among Kenyans who value peace and unity.

"Of concern is the timing of these remarks, which come at a critical juncture as the country grapples with issues with Finance Bill 2024,"said Abdi.

In their protest against attack on Haji, who was the former Director of Public Prosecutions (DP PP), the leaders wondered how it is becoming increasingly clear matters of important national debate are now used to instigate divisions and tension.

The leaders also went on to argue that the Deputy President's comments are a blatant attempt to incite discord and  ultimately shift the focus from substantive discussions on the Finance Bill and  take the country into the dark and slippery path of ethnic balkanization.

"As elected. representatives of the NEP, we strongly denounce any form of rhetoric that seeks to marginalize or scapegoat any community in Kenya,"vowed Abdi. The leaders also asserted that Gachagua's utterances undermine the principles of inclusivity and unity  that the country stands for. "We urge all leaders to refrain from making statements that can inflame ethnic tensions and threaten the peace and stability of our country, especially at this time when critical national issues are sought to be addressed."

They also defended the Somali community which they explained, like all other communities in Kenya, deserves respect and fair treatment.

"We will not tolerate any actions or statements that seek to demean or undermine our contributions to the nation."

The leaders see Rigathi's statement as a stark reminder of the prejudices that still exist in the country.

"We must all work together to eradicate such divisive attitudes. It is imperative that leaders in the stature of the Deputy President set a positive example by promoting unity and inculcating values of respect, and the rule of law among all Kenyans, regardless of their ethnic background."

The leaders are demanding that the Deputy President apologise over his remarks.

They want  President William Ruto's government to firmly deal with leaders propelling divisive sentiments.

"We firmly encourage the government to take a firm hand in dealing with leaders who engage in divisive rhetoric and ensure they are held accountable for their

actions as a firm stance against any form of hate speech, inflammatory utterances, or incitement to violence as a means to enhance the peace and cohesion," said Maalim.

The northern leaders were joined by EALA MP Hassan Omar, who shared the same sentiments.