Appearing on Citizen TV's Day Break show on Monday, February 28, 2022, Mathira Member of parliament Rigathi Gachagua made remarks that have since rattled feathers within the Kenya Kwanza Alliance.
Gachagua, while responding to the question of the coalition's flag bearer and running mate, stated that Deputy President William Ruto will be Kenya Kwanza's presidential candidate and will be deputized by someone from Mount Kenya region,.
This has since attracted criticism from Amani National Congress (ANC) and FORD-Kenya parties who are members of the Kenya Kwanza Alliance alongside DP Ruto-led UDA.
Taking to Twitter on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, FORD-Kenya leader Moses Wetangula told off Gachagua, stating that the coalition was not formed on the basis of sharing positions.
The Bungoma senator reiterated that the coalition was formed on the basis of transforming the lives of ordinary Kenyans who have borne the brut of the country's economic turmoil.
"Kenya Kwanza Alliance is not about sharing positions but service to Kenyans inter alia, revival & growth of the economy, reduction of the debt nightmare, restoration of dignity to our farmers, creation of an equitable society and other pro-people programs," Wetangula stated.
His sentiments came hours after ANC Secretary-General Simon Gikuru issued a statement condemning Gachagua's remarks and urged him to embrace the broader picture of the coalition's philosophy.
"Kenya Kwanza has not decided on its presidential candidate and running mate candidates. This will happen and be unveiled at an appropriate time by our principals," the statement read in part.
The party further discouraged divisive narratives ahead of the August 9 polls, terming the remarks by Gachagua as premature and unwarranted.
"In this regard, Hon Gachagua has no authority to speak for Kenya Kwanza on the matter hence his sentiments are premature, untimely, and unwarranted," the statement added.
