Deputy Minority Leader and Kathiani Member of Parliament Robert Mbui has suggested that Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s recent silence may be due to a perceived sidelining in the upcoming election cycle.
According to Mbui, Gachagua’s retreat from the political forefront is a result of various events that have diminished his political influence in the country. Mbui pointed to instances such as President William Ruto’s indication that he intends to nominate a female running mate and his commitment to uphold the two-thirds gender rule in his administration.
The lawmaker speculated that Ruto’s statements may have unsettled Gachagua, leading to doubts about his prospects of retaining his position as the deputy head of state.
Meanwhile, in Tana River County, thousands of residents in the Tana Delta subcounty are in dire need of relief food, clean water, and shelter following a devastating flood disaster. Kipini West is the worst affected area, with entire villages submerged and residents forced to seek refuge in neighboring safer areas or set up temporary camps where floodwaters have not reached.
The situation has led to significant challenges in accessing basic necessities, with the road to Chara completely cut off and limited public transportation options available. Additionally, approximately 10 schools have been submerged, preventing children from attending classes.
Journalists who visited the affected villages witnessed firsthand the dire conditions faced by the victims, including overcrowded shelters, unsanitary living conditions, and the risk of water-borne diseases due to drinking contaminated water from the flooded river.
Hassan Galgalo, a resident of Kipini West, expressed dismay at the lack of intervention from the national and county governments since the disaster struck two weeks ago. He highlighted the urgency of the situation, particularly at the Marafa internal displaced people’s camp, which is hosting several villages displaced by the floods.
“Recently, when Mai Mahiu disaster struck the whole world gathered there including the President. Who have we wronged as residents of Kipini West and Tana Delta. Have we wronged God?” he said.
The Kenya Red Cross is registering victims while other NGOs are visiting the affected families but no support has been given to them so far.
“These people are going through a difficult time. The congested camp has over 1,000 houses. We also have camps in Chamwanamuma, Anasa, Semicaro, Mandingo up to Bura Amani. People have moved from their homes, the whole area is flooded. Why is the government not helping them,” Galgalo said.
He called on the county government to intervene as their efforts have not been seen ever since the disaster struck.
