Muthama threatens to expose Gachagua over PEV remarks

Former Machakos Senator Johnson Muthama has cautioned Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP), against reigniting memories of the 2007/08 post-election violence.

He warned that such remarks risk destabilizing the nation and reversing the healing process Kenyans have undergone over the years.

Muthama issued the warning on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, during the funeral of Peter Lumumba Mutiso in Ngamba Salama, Makueni County.

He stressed that revisiting the painful past nearly two decades later is both reckless and inflammatory, especially when the country is focused on unity and progress.

Muthama, now serving as a commissioner with the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC), has issued a stern warning to Rigathi Gachagua, urging him to desist from making inflammatory statements about the 2007/08 post-election violence.

Muthama said if Gachagua persists, he would be forced to expose his past conduct during his time as a District Officer.

"Let’s leave the past behind and focus on moving forward. But if we insist on revisiting it, Gachagua must remember he was the District Officer then—and I know exactly what he did. If he doesn’t stop, I’m ready to bring that evidence to light," Muthama declared.

He emphasized that his stand was not personal.

"I supported him as deputy president and witnessed the process that led to his nomination as UDA’s running mate. But I cannot stay silent. I’m a true Kenyan who fears no one. I stand for truth. And the truth is—Gachagua, stop dividing the country," said Muthama.

"Never again remind us of the 2007 tragedy."

On Monday, Rigathi Gachagua defended his recent remarks on past post-election violence, clarifying that his intention was to call for a credible and transparent electoral process ahead of the 2027 polls.

He maintained that his comments were rooted in Kenya’s electoral history, referencing the disputed elections of 1992, 1997, and 2007.

"My statement was not incitement—it was a cautionary reminder based on historical facts. We must strive for a free and fair election in 2027," Gachagua explained.

Meanwhile, Johnson Muthama, a Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC) commissioner, weighed in on the matter, reaffirming his commitment to President William Ruto’s administration, which he joined in pursuit of unity, justice, and equity.

He warned political groups eyeing his support in 2027 that his allegiance is grounded in principles, not shifting alliances.

Addressing last week’s chaos during the launch of Gachagua’s new political outfit, Muthama condemned the disruption and urged leaders to uphold constitutional freedoms.

"Even if I, my wife, or my children want to form a political party, it is a right protected by the Constitution. Gachagua is free to form his own party and face others in the arena. Let us uphold mature democracy and respect one another’s choices," he said.

Muthama also took a swipe at the current state of the opposition, arguing that without ODM leader Raila Odinga at the helm, it has lost its bite and direction.

"No one understands opposition politics in Kenya better than Raila Amolo Odinga. I stood with him as we pushed back against Uhuru Kenyatta’s regime, driven by a genuine hunger for change. But today’s opposition inspires no hope," Muthama said.

He cautioned leaders against careless remarks that could stoke tensions, warning of the devastating impact of violence.

"If you want to grasp the true cost of conflict, look at the suffering in the Congo. Gachagua is free to criticize Ruto—but if he aspires to lead this nation, he must stop framing things around ‘my people’. Kenya belongs to all of us," added Muthama.