Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged lawyers from the Mt Kenya region to run for elective seats. He said this would raise the quality of leadership in the country, The Star reported. He spoke as chief guest at the "Ngemi Cia Watho 2.0" celebrations at Thika Greens Golf Resort in Thika, Kiambu County, on Saturday night.
Gachagua praised the growing number of lawyers who want to enter politics. He said their training and grasp of the law could strengthen legislative representation. "I am overwhelmed by the high number of lawyers who are seeking elective positions. This way, I am convinced we shall improve the quality of legislators we elect," he said, according to The Star.
He said this was the only way the region could redeem itself from the "elective shame" it now faces. He blamed that on the leaders voters sent to the National Assembly. He criticised Mt Kenya voters for electing some lawmakers who, he claimed, lack quality education. Gachagua argued that this had hurt their ability to do their legislative work. He urged residents to weigh candidates' qualifications and competence before voting.
Gachagua also called on government agencies to speed up investigations into the whereabouts of lawyer Abshir Abdi. He urged the authorities to establish his fate.
A power blackout briefly interrupted his address. Footage from the event showed the lights going off while Gachagua stood at the podium, plunging much of the venue into darkness. Some guests switched on their phone flashlights. Power returned after about a minute and the event continued.
Nyandarua Senator John Methu and Kirinyaga Senator Kamau Murango, both allies of Gachagua, joined him on the dais. He had introduced them to the audience shortly before the blackout. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, leader of the Linda Mwananchi Movement, also attended.
The event brought together lawyers from the region to celebrate their cultural heritage, professional achievements and contribution to society, The Star reported.