Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified calls for accountability among Northern Kenya leaders, insisting that the days of incompetence and misappropriation of public funds are over. Speaking on Thursday, Gachagua emphasized that every leader will now be held responsible for their actions.
“Our commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency in the management of public funds allocated to the Northern Kenya counties remains unwavering,” he stated.
Gachagua highlighted the historical marginalization of the region, noting that the people of Northern Kenya have long been disadvantaged, often constrained by both clan elders and their elected representatives. “The era in which leaders from Northern Kenya could hide their ineptitude and incompetencies behind Sessional Paper No. 10 of 1965 is firmly in the past,” he said.
He credited the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and devolution—including Devolved Funds, Equalization Funds, development partner contributions, and the Constituency Development Fund (CDF)—for progressively addressing these challenges and ensuring permanent reforms. “The genie is already out of the bottle,” Gachagua added.
The former deputy president also visited the office of his friend, Mr. Fazmahal, in Karen to reflect further on the urgent need for reform and accountability in the region. His remarks signal a continued push for transparency and responsible governance in Northern Kenya, with an emphasis on ensuring that public resources reach the communities they are intended to serve.
This marks a renewed focus on reforming leadership and public financial management in the region, sending a clear warning to those who might seek to exploit their positions at the expense of citizens.