DAP-K party leader Eugene Wamalwa has expressed his support for Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua amid concerns about alleged attempts to divide the Mt. Kenya region. Speaking during the interdenominational funeral service for the 21 Hillside Academy victims, Wamalwa affirmed his commitment to standing behind the region.
Wamalwa highlighted rumors suggesting a plot to split the region following the opposition’s actions. “We want to remind those behind trying to ignite a fire in the mountain that they should know this mountain has friends,” he stated. He emphasized the historical ties of support within the region, referencing figures like Kalonzo Musyoka and himself.
“When you see Kalonzo here, he is a friend of the mountain, he was the vice president of late president Mwai Kibaki during his first term… Just know we are your friends. If the day comes and this mountain calls upon us, we will stand with you; you will not walk alone.”
Deputy President Gachagua attended the event alongside other leaders, including Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and Wiper’s Kalonzo Musyoka. Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, in his remarks, urged leaders to tone down political rhetoric, reflecting the wishes of the bereaved parents. “Today, these parents, through their representatives, have requested that we tone down politics,” he said.
Kalonzo Musyoka, while also present, refrained from political discussions out of respect for the tragedy but mentioned plans to address important issues with the residents of Nyeri and Karatina towns.
He humorously requested not to send police with tear gas during his addresses, emphasizing the significance of the matters to be discussed. Additionally, he proposed renaming the school to Hillside Endarasha Memorial School in honor of the 21 pupils who lost their lives.
