Kalonzo Backs Gachagua
Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka has jumped into the conversation about the ongoing underdevelopment in Northern Kenya, lending his support to former Deputy President and Democratic Party of Action (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua’s bold statements.
In a post shared on X on January 24, Kalonzo voiced his frustration over the region’s persistent marginalization, despite the billions that have been allocated through devolution over the last thirteen years.
He pointed fingers at North Eastern leaders, accusing them of siphoning off public funds intended for development and instead pouring them into Nairobi’s thriving real estate market.
Kalonzo’s comments come just weeks after Gachagua stirred up controversy by calling out Northern Kenya leaders for enjoying a lavish lifestyle in Nairobi while their own constituencies struggle with a lack of basic infrastructure.
“I want to commend Honourable Rigathi for bringing out this issue. It is extremely sad that Northern Kenya continues to lag behind thirteen years after devolution, not because of a lack of resources, but because of the decisions their leaders have decided to make,” stated Kalonzo.
He expressed deep concern that leaders have turned their backs on their communities, prioritizing their own wealth over the vital task of building schools, hospitals, and other essential services in their own regions.
He pointed out that entire communities are left grappling with poverty, neglect, and despair, while resources are funneled to Nairobi for the personal gain and lavish lifestyles of those in power.
Earlier, Gachagua claimed that the North-Eastern counties have received nearly Ksh1 trillion in development and equalization funds since devolution kicked off in 2010.
Gachagua also launched a charm offensive, accusing leaders from Garrissa, Wajir, and Mandera of living in upscale Nairobi neighborhoods like Eastleigh, South C, and Kilimani.
He highlighted the dire state of local schools, hospitals, and roads, drawing a stark contrast with the investments made by leaders in Nairobi’s towering skyscrapers and luxury apartments scattered throughout the capital.
Gachagua recently alleged that leaders from the North were intimidating local journalists, supposedly pressuring them to skip a roundtable interview scheduled at his home in January 2026.
His comments sparked a variety of reactions; while some locals and professionals backed his claims, senior figures like Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale slammed them as highly offensive to the Somali community.
Mandera County Senator Ali Roba called for Gachagua’s arrest, accusing the administration of negotiating with extremist groups in Mandera, labeling his statements as dangerous to national security and baseless.
Suna East MP and Leader of the Minority, Junet Mohammed, took issue with Gachagua’s stance, arguing that it fueled tribalism and unfairly stereotyped an entire community. He urged for accountability instead of sweeping generalizations.
On January 22, a group of journalists from Northern Kenya Media Practitioners announced they would collectively withdraw from the planned interview with Gachagua. They cited their commitment to responsible journalism and national unity, explaining that after internal discussions, they felt the interview wouldn’t align with the principles of responsible journalism, national cohesion, and constructive public dialogue.
Kalonzo assured that the United Opposition would focus on developing Northern Kenya, promising that they would ensure devolution benefits marginalized communities once they take power as the government in waiting.
“We will ensure that devolution works for you, that public resources are invested where they belong, and that no region is left behind,” Kalonzo pledged.
Kalonzo Backs Gachagua
