Former Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has publicly criticized Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, accusing him of failing to address community issues in the Mt Kenya region effectively. On September 20, Kuria took to social media platform X to express his concerns, drawing a comparison between Kindiki and his predecessor, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Kuria referenced a recent funeral where a relative's death was linked to alcohol abuse, highlighting the ongoing illicit alcohol crisis in the region.
Kuria argued that Gachagua demonstrated greater commitment to stamping out illicit brews during his tenure, despite his poor political judgment. He stated that Gachagua was serious about fighting illicit brews in the Mt Kenya region, whereas Kindiki has not shown the same level of resolve. Kuria's comments have sparked a renewed debate about the effectiveness of Kindiki's leadership in the region. The Mt Kenya region has been grappling with the issue of illicit alcohol, which has had devastating effects on the local communities.
Kuria also targeted a recent political gathering where Deputy President Kindiki met with elders from the Gikuyu, Aembu, Mbeere, and Ameru communities at Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu County. The elders formally installed Kindiki as the region's central political figure. However, Kuria condemned the choice of venue, arguing that using Kirigiti Stadium for a divisive political endorsement undermines the historical significance of the grounds. Kirigiti Stadium is a symbol of Kenya's freedom struggles and the birthplace of the nationalist movement.
Kuria's criticism of the event was not limited to the venue. He also expressed concerns about the divisive nature of the gathering, which he described as a "Pasua Mlima" (Split the Mountain) conference. Kuria's comments reflect a deeper concern about the potential for political divisions to undermine the region's unity and development. The Mt Kenya region has been a significant political hub, with various leaders vying for influence and support.
The public spat between Kuria and Kindiki highlights the ongoing political tensions within the Mt Kenya region. Kindiki's office has not yet responded to Kuria's criticism, but the comments are likely to fuel further debate about the region's leadership and development. The region has been experiencing significant economic and social challenges, including high levels of unemployment and poverty.
Kuria's criticism of Kindiki is not an isolated incident. There have been several public disagreements between various leaders in the region, reflecting deeper divisions and power struggles. The Mt Kenya region is a critical political constituency, and the outcome of these power struggles will likely have significant implications for the region's future development.
The issue of illicit alcohol in the Mt Kenya region remains a significant challenge. The region has been grappling with the problem for years, with various leaders and stakeholders proposing different solutions. The effectiveness of Kindiki's leadership in addressing this issue will likely be a key factor in determining his success in the region.
Key points
- Moses Kuria accuses Deputy President Kithure Kindiki of failing to demonstrate sufficient resolve in tackling community issues in the Mt Kenya region.
- Kuria draws comparison between Kindiki and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, arguing that Gachagua demonstrated greater commitment to stamping out illicit brews.
- Kuria condemns the choice of Kirigiti Stadium for a divisive political endorsement, citing the historical significance of the grounds.
