"The Ground Has Changed" Speaker Wetangula Notices As Crowd Erupts After Attacking Gachagua in Busia

A political storm erupted in Busia when Speaker Moses Wetangula launched a scathing attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua—only for the crowd to push back in an unexpected outburst. What was meant to be a calm community empowerment event shifted into a charged battleground as tensions soared.

Wetangula accused Gachagua of promoting tribalism in Central Kenya by holding secretive, ethnically exclusive meetings, even during his recent visit to the United States. “You cannot build a united nation while entertaining ethnic cocoons,” he remarked. His comments triggered murmurs and heckles, some from visibly offended attendees, momentarily stalling his address.

Despite the unrest, Wetangula pressed on. He urged Busia residents to rally behind President William Ruto and the Kenya Kwanza government ahead of the 2027 elections. He warned against leaders sowing division, casting Gachagua as a stumbling block to national unity. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, seated beside him, remained silent throughout, adding silent weight to the unfolding drama.

This clash comes amid rising factionalism within Kenya Kwanza, with recent statements from both camps hinting at growing distrust. Wetangula’s remarks, delivered in a region far from Mt. Kenya, may signal a strategic repositioning as the ruling coalition prepares for a reshuffle in power dynamics.

Analysts say this could be the early sign of a political split as new alliances form behind closed doors. Was Wetangula testing public opinion or laying ground for a larger realignment? As cracks within the coalition widen, questions linger over who will shape the 2027 race—and whether Gachagua’s hold is stronger than his critics think. The silence from key allies is telling. The battle lines are drawn, but the outcome remains uncertain.