George Wajackoyah, the controversial Roots Party leader known for his unfiltered takes, has again stirred the pot—this time, calling out Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s “cousins” rhetoric. Speaking at a press event on Monday, Wajackoyah dismissed Gachagua’s remarks as “tribal nonsense,” saying Kenya deserves better than leaders playing identity politics.
The phrase “cousins” has been central to a narrative Gachagua has used frequently, suggesting political alliances based on ethnic kinship. While some have interpreted the language as an attempt to unify central Kenya and Rift Valley electorates, critics argue it only deepens tribal lines. Wajackoyah didn’t mince words. “That talk is divisive,” he said. “This is 2025. Kenyans want jobs, healthcare, and justice—not to hear which cousin sits where.”
A Step Backward
Wajackoyah’s criticism lands at a time when many Kenyans are increasingly frustrated by politics centered around ethnicity rather than policy. He questioned the logic behind building alliances based on tribe instead of competence. “It’s nonsense,” Wajackoyah stated bluntly. “This country cannot move forward while still anchored in tribal politics. What we need is unity, not cousin clubs.”
Gachagua, who has styled himself as a defender of Mt. Kenya interests, has leaned heavily into ethnic messaging, often referring to the Kikuyu-Kalenjin relationship as a political “cousinhood.” While this has played well in some corners, it has also drawn widespread criticism from leaders across the country.
Wajackoyah’s Consistent Message
This isn’t the first time Wajackoyah has gone against the grain. In the 2022 general election, his campaign gained traction by refusing to pander to tribal expectations. Instead, he focused on bold—albeit unconventional—policy ideas. He seems determined to keep that energy alive. “If Gachagua wants to talk about cousins, he can do that at a family reunion, not in national discourse,” Wajackoyah quipped.
A Public Ready for Change?
The public response to Wajackoyah’s remarks has been mixed but notable. On social media, many praised his candor, while others called for more diplomatic language. Still, his central point—that Kenya should abandon tribal rhetoric in favor of national unity—resonated with a growing portion of voters tired of ethno-political games.
Final Word
George Wajackoyah’s dismissal of Rigathi Gachagua’s cousins rhetoric as “tribal nonsense” isn’t just another political jab. It’s a demand to shift the national conversation toward merit, policy, and unity. As Kenya inches closer to the next electoral cycle, one thing is clear: tribal talk is losing its grip, and leaders will need more than cousin references to win over a more critical and aspirational electorate.
