Gusii UDA leaders close ranks, turn tables on Gachagua over Matiang’i attacks

Two United Democratic Alliance (UDA) affiliated legislators from Kisii have united in a rare display of support for former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, responding to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s derogatory remarks about Matiang’i. Sylvanus Osoro, MP for South Mugirango, and Japheth Nyakundi, MP for Kitutu Chache North, challenged Gachagua to compare his own government record with Matiang’i’s, accusing him of inciting division and making ungrounded personal attacks against the former Cabinet Secretary.

Both legislators warned that the Gusii community would not tolerate one of its prominent members being disparaged, emphasizing that political rivalries should not descend into insults and regional animosity. Osoro particularly criticized Gachagua, questioning his moral authority to pass judgment on Matiang’i’s public service performance, given his own tenure in the Education, ICT and Interior ministries.

“The difference is clear as day and night,” Osoro stated, asserting that while healthy political competition is permissible, it must be carried out with dignity and respect for opposing figures. He warned Gachagua to reconsider his attacks on Matiang’i, adding that the former Deputy President’s only recognized achievement was his impeachment from both government and the opposition.

Nyakundi also accused Gachagua of gaining political clout through intimidation, division, and vindictiveness, urging Matiang’i to acknowledge a pattern of conduct that he had previously criticized. The UDA treasurer cautioned the Gusii community not to allow its support for Matiang’i to overshadow its broader political sensibilities, urging them to prioritize the community’s interests over tribal loyalty.

He called for a more nuanced assessment of political choices, emphasizing that the Gusii region deserved leaders who could foster unity and equality. Nyakundi further cautioned Matiang’i against associating with political opportunists, suggesting that some individuals could be unreliable allies. This solidarity marks a significant shift in the political landscape surrounding Matiang’i, reflecting the region’s willingness to defend one of its own against opposition criticism.