Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has issued a public apology to residents of Kieni Constituency, acknowledging that some political decisions he made during the 2022 General Election campaigns were mistakes he now seeks to correct as the country prepares for the next polls.
Addressing residents during a public engagement, Gachagua said the apology followed deep reflection and consultations with locals, especially young people who feel sidelined by current political and economic policies. He admitted that his aggressive support for a candidate during the last election had unintended consequences, particularly in relation to policies affecting youth empowerment.Gachagua stated that he now believes the candidate he campaigned for promoted policies that undermined opportunities for young people, especially within the digital economy.
He observed that many Kenyan youths depend on technology-driven livelihoods such as online work, digital entrepreneurship, and innovation hubs, all of which require deliberate policy support and protection.“The digital economy is not a future idea; it is the present reality for millions of young Kenyans,” Gachagua said.
“Leadership that fails to support this sector denies the youth a critical pathway to economic independence.”He stressed that political leaders must take responsibility when their decisions harm the people they represent, arguing that accountability is key to restoring public trust.
According to Gachagua, acknowledging mistakes should be seen as an act of leadership rather than weakness.The former deputy president further called for a shift toward issue-based politics, urging leaders to prioritise policies that directly improve livelihoods instead of focusing on personality-driven campaigns.
He said elections should be centred on development agendas that address unemployment, technological inclusion, and economic sustainability.Looking ahead, Gachagua said he is determined to engage more closely with constituents and support leadership that aligns with the aspirations of the youth.
He reiterated his commitment to advocating for policies that strengthen digital innovation, expand economic opportunities, and ensure young people are at the centre of national development as Kenya moves toward the next general election.
