Gachagua Refuses To Promise MCA He'll Tarmac Road, Says He Must First Consult: "Uwongo Sitaki"

• Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua reiterated the importance of honesty in leadership while addressing a plea to tarmac a road in Kiminini
• Gachagua dismissed the request from a local MCA, stating he would not make false promises without first assessing the feasibility of the project
• He explained that making empty promises would lead to disappointment later, stressing that truthfulness and transparency are key to serving Kenyans
• Gachagua highlighted that being honest with constituents is an ethical practice, urging leaders to uphold this value, especially as Christians

Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Trans Nzoia - Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has reiterated the importance of honesty when making promises to Kenyans.

During the burial service of former NACADA chief executive officer Victor Okioma in Kiminini on Friday, September 6, the DP dismissed a local ward representative’s request to tarmac a road in the area.

In his address, the MCA urged Gachagua to ensure the road was tarmacked to help improve the area's economy.

However, the deputy president, known for his candid remarks, gave a blunt response to the MCA.

How did Gachagua address the MCA's plea?

In a quick retort, Gachagua stated that he would not lie about tarmacking the road, stressing that he must first consult and assess the situation before making any commitments.

"The MCA, you asked me about tarmacking the road here, but you know I don't deal with lies. Now, if I come here and tell you that I will build that road, it would be a lie. I have to go and check if the funds are available, send engineers, and then get back to you. Or do you want me to lie to you? I don’t want that; I'm a truthful man," the DP said, attracting laughter from the mourners.

Gachagua explained that making such promises without checking the feasibility would only lead to momentary gratification but disappointment in the long run.

"You know I could say it will be done so that you can clap for me, but next time I come, won’t you boo me? I don’t want that," he added.

Why did Gachagua turn down Trans Nzoia MCA's request

Gachagua emphasised the need for truthfulness and transparency, urging leaders to be honest with their constituents.

He stressed that it is an ethical practice to be implemented by any leader, adding that it is also recommended for Christians.

"Regarding the road, we’ll go check and give you a response next time, but if you push me to lie, I will lie to you. Or do you want to push me to lie and say it will be tarmacked? I don’t want to do that. It’s good to be truthful and honest to the people of Kenya. Let's say what is possible, and if it’s not, let’s be clear that it’s not. That’s the way to live because we are also Christians," he stated.

UDA MP takes on Ruto over promises

Elsewhere, Marakwet West MP Timothy Kipchumba criticised President William Ruto for unfulfilled promises.

Kipchumba recalled Ruto's promise to deploy NYS personnel to the stalled development of Chebara Institution, expressing frustration that the institution has not progressed as promised.

The MP urged Ruto to ensure that financial resources are allocated to complete pledged projects, stressing the importance of keeping promises made at rallies.

Kipchumba expressed fear of potential unrest among his constituents due to unfulfilled promises, citing recent youth-led protests as a warning sign.

Proofreading by Asher Omondi, current affairs journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.