Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has declared that he intends to focus much of his attention on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. While Gachagua’s political conduct is certainly open to scrutiny, one question deserves to be asked: Did these confrontational politics begin only after he fell out with President William Ruto’s administration? The answer is a clear no.
Gachagua’s combative style was evident long before his fallout with the current administration. During the previous political alliance, when he worked closely with President Ruto and Murkomen, former President Uhuru Kenyatta was often the target of relentless political attacks. Those who stood alongside Gachagua then can hardly claim to be surprised by his current approach. Political behavior rarely changes overnight; it simply shifts its target.
This is why attempts to portray Gachagua as a newly emerged political problem ring hollow to many observers. Those who once embraced and defended his style now appear uncomfortable because the same tactics are being directed at them. It is difficult to separate the messenger from the environment that helped shape and encourage such politics.
More importantly, Kenya is grappling with far more urgent challenges than an endless political contest between government leaders and the former deputy president. Insecurity remains a growing concern, with many residents feeling increasingly unsafe, particularly in Nairobi. Reports of violent crime, robberies, and attacks continue to worry ordinary citizens who expect the government to prioritize their safety.
Political violence is another issue demanding immediate attention. The rise of goonism at political rallies threatens democratic participation and public order. Addressing these security concerns would have a far greater impact on the lives of Kenyans than devoting significant public resources to political battles.
Leadership is ultimately about priorities. At a time when citizens are looking for solutions to insecurity, economic hardship, and public safety, the country’s focus should be on delivering results rather than deepening political rivalries. Kenya has bigger challenges to confront, and its leaders should dedicate their energy to solving them.
Murkomen vows to crack down on Gachagua over alleged inciteful politics pic.twitter.com/caZu4PspQk
— K24TV (@K24Tv) July 5, 2026
