Speaking in a televised interview on Friday, September 20, 2024, Gachagua admitted that Uhuru had been right all along, particularly regarding his support for Raila Odinga during the 2022 general elections.
Gachagua explained that the people of the Mt. Kenya region, himself included, had been deceived into believing that Raila was not fit to lead the country. However, in light of recent developments, he now accepts that this judgment was flawed.
During the interview, Gachagua said he felt the need to apologize to Uhuru not just as an individual but on behalf of the Mt. Kenya community.
According to him, Uhuru's endorsement of Raila had caused division within the region, leading to widespread criticism of the former president.
Gachagua expressed regret for the way he and others treated Uhuru. "We demeaned him and told him off for telling us that Raila is a good man," he said, adding that the backlash against Uhuru was unjustified. Gachagua now believes that Uhuru’s endorsement of Raila as a statesman was not only correct but also wise.
The Deputy President admitted that Raila Odinga, the leader of the opposition and the former Prime Minister, was unfairly portrayed in the run-up to the elections.
Gachagua now acknowledges that Raila is a capable leader, echoing the sentiments of both Uhuru and President William Ruto, who have recently softened their stance on him.
“Now that Ruto has said Raila is a good man, I apologize to Uhuru Kenyatta and his family. I owe him this apology on behalf of our community," Gachagua stated.
He further explained that when two presidents—Uhuru and Ruto—say that Raila is a good leader, it is difficult to argue against it.
During the interview, Gachagua also opened up about the political challenges he faced for siding with President Ruto during the 2022 elections.
He explained that standing with Ruto, while commendable in some respects, also put him at odds with many in his region, especially those who remained loyal to Uhuru.
Looking back, Gachagua admitted that his actions, along with those of his political allies, caused unnecessary harm to Uhuru.
He described the former president’s treatment as unfair, particularly because Uhuru's only "crime" was endorsing Raila—a leader now viewed in a more favorable light.
Despite the political tension in the Mt. Kenya region, Gachagua indicated that he had reached out to Uhuru to mend their relationship.
He emphasized that he has a good rapport with the former president, having realized his mistakes and seeking to make amends.
However, Gachagua still faces internal opposition in the Mt. Kenya region. Several leaders, including legislators and community figures, have expressed their dissatisfaction with his leadership.
Some have pledged their allegiance to Kithure Kindiki, the Cabinet Secretary for Interior, which presents a new challenge for Gachagua's political standing.
With the political heat rising in his backyard, Gachagua has appealed to President Ruto to intervene. He has requested a parliamentary group meeting to address the growing concerns among Mt. Kenya leaders, many of whom have criticized him for engaging in tribal politics and failing to explain government policies clearly to the people.
Despite the challenges, Gachagua remains hopeful that, with Ruto’s support, he can navigate through the political storm and solidify his position both within the government and in the Mt. Kenya region.
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