Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently attended a funeral service at the Kiamwathi Anglican Church in Kirinyaga County, where he paid his respects to 17 residents who had tragically lost their lives after consuming toxic illicit alcohol. In his address,
Gachagua voiced strong criticisms toward the Judiciary, blaming it for leniency in handling cases of illegal alcohol production, which he argued has worsened the issue.
He called for stronger intervention, suggesting that local governments should have greater power to combat the problem in their communities.
The incident has brought to light the devastating effects of illegal alcohol in the region, as the victims died shortly after consuming the contaminated liquor.
Investigations revealed that the alcohol had been confiscated by the police but was later sold illegally by officers in Kirinyaga, which sparked public outrage and prompted calls for justice.
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has since taken action, ordering the closure of all bars in the affected areas to prevent similar incidents in the future.
This funeral also provided a platform for Gachagua to address political tensions in the Mt. Kenya region, defending his role as a unifier and calling for regional solidarity.
He denounced those opposing him as divisive forces and reiterated his commitment to regional unity and development.
He urged leaders to focus on delivering services rather than engaging in early political campaigns, emphasizing that his focus remains on the well-being of the Mt. Kenya community.
