Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly refuted claims circulating online alleging that he celebrated the death of Johanna Ngeno, terming the reports as malicious propaganda by state-sponsored bloggers.
In a firm statement, Gachagua expressed deep sorrow over the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the life of the Emurua Dikirr MP, describing him as a close friend and a rising leader within the Kipsigis community.
“I am very saddened by the news of the tragic death of Hon. Johanna #Ngeno in a helicopter crash,” Gachagua said, dismissing assertions that he had made insensitive remarks regarding the legislator’s passing.
The former Deputy President revealed that despite political pressures and alleged intimidation that forced #Ngeno to publicly criticize him, the two remained close friends until his untimely death. He described the late MP as a courageous leader with a promising future, whose demise has robbed the Kipsigis community of transformative leadership.
Gachagua further called for a thorough and speedy investigation into the cause of the crash, insisting that the findings must be made public. “State bloggers are busy manipulating our condolences by editing our message and corrupting it to have a different meaning,” he stated, suggesting that the distortion of his message was deliberate.
In a pointed remark, he added, “Maybe they know something about the crash,” raising questions about the motives behind the online narratives.
He concluded by extending his sympathies to the family and constituents of the late MP, saying, “May the soul of Hon. Ng’eno rest in peace.”