DP Gachagua Warns CS Moses Kuria and David Ndii

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has fired a warning shot at Trade CS Moses Kurai and President William Ruto's Economic advisor David Ndii over their recent remarks on the increase of fuel prices.  

In a statement issued on Sunday, September 17, after Gachagua landed in the country, the Deputy president said that he had noted with concern the exchanges between public servants and Kenyans. 

DP Gachagua cautioned leaders to exercise caution while addressing Kenyans noting that the government was aware of the high cost of living. 

"I want to call upon fellow leaders, particularly those that President Ruto has given the privilege to serve Kenyans to exercise caution in addressing Their Employer- the People of Kenya. It is Insensitive to talk down on The People. I would like to remind them that although the people of Kenya did not employ them directly, they President Ruto, who in turn appointed them Cabinet Secretaries and Advisors and hence by virtue of this, they are employed by Kenyans.

"You don't address your employer with arrogance, do so with humility and decorum. Kenyans, like the rest of the world, are going through difficult economic times and leaders should address them with Sensitivity and Empathy. Responsible leaders should be sensitive and inspire hope in the People, hope for a better tomorrow. Talking down on the people and demoralising those who look up to them for solutions and a way out of the difficult situation they find themselves in is not good leadership. Please do not spite the People of Kenya," part of the statement read.

The DP added," With deep respect, I would like to plead with the people of Kenya to appreciate that the issue of fuel prices is a worldwide challenge. Things will get better as we move along. The Government remains aware of and is sensitive to the challenges Kenyans are facing today; the arrogant statements by a few leaders do not, in any way, reflect the official Government position or that of President William Ruto." 

Trade CS Kuria has received backlash from a section of netizens after telling them to 'drill their own wells' instead of complaining that the prices of fuel have gone up from morning to evening. 

At the same time, Ndii seemed to admit that the government was not sure whether the strategies they had put in place to reduce the cost of living would work. 

The Economist seemed to blame Kenyans for trusting politicians that they would lower the cost of living.