President William Ruto’s righthand man, Farouk Kibet, has played down comments former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua made during a recent tour of the Ukambani region.
Speaking to Ukambani locals, Gachagua referred to the Kamba community as “cousins” of the Mt. Kenya people, framing their relationship as a family bond rather than a political alliance.
In response, Farouk urged Kenyans to dismiss Gachagua’s rhetoric, calling it divisive and unworthy of serious attention.
“He has now started calling other communities cousins. Gachagua is someone who should not be paid attention to,” Farouk stated. “And we are asking the churches not to give room to such people who were removed from office for not helping President Ruto while in office.”
Farouk addressed the issue at RCEA Korosiot Church in Turbo, warning that using tribal labels to win support risks tearing the country apart.
He stressed that genuine leadership should be rooted in nationalism and not personal interests or ethnic favoritism.
If he could not work with his boss, President Ruto, is he qualified to be a leader at any level?” Farouk posed.
He called on Kenyans and the church to stand firm in protecting national unity, saying it’s the foundation for a peaceful and progressive future.
“We want even the people of Western Kenya to lead next time because the presidency is not a preserve of certain communities,” he added.
Farouk also reminded leaders that the Kalenjin community supported former President Uhuru Kenyatta without conditions and urged them to treat President Ruto with equal respect.
