Kisii Governor Simba Arati has accused former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of orchestrating a campaign of intimidation against him during his early days in office.
Speaking during Mashujaa Day celebrations on October 20, Arati claimed that senior government officials in Kisii had been incited by Gachagua to frustrate his administration, creating unnecessary tension in the county.
“Nilipoanza nilikuwa na shida mingi. Walitaka nipige magoti chini,” Arati told the crowd. “Mmoja yule aliyetolewa ofisini, alikuwa amechochea hao viongozi wa serikali. Huyo mtu alikua anaitwa Gachagua alikua ameweka fitina kwa county commissioner hapa. Hawa askari wote walikuwa wananikimbiza kila mahali.”
The governor said that while he had previously chosen to remain diplomatic, he now intended to confront what he described as systemic intimidation from the national government. “Sasa kuelekea mbele, siwezi kubali. Afadhali nife, siwezi kufa nikiwa nimepiga magoti chini,” he added.
Arati called for mutual respect among leaders, urging the national government to allow opposition figures to serve without harassment. “Hata wale wa upinzani wapewe nafasi. Kesho unaweza pata kwamba jua limeanza kuwaka pande ingine,” he said, implying that political power can shift unexpectedly.
His remarks come amid renewed opposition realignments following the death of Raila Odinga, with leaders across the political divide calling for unity ahead of the 2027 elections.
Arati’s outburst marks a reversal from July 2025, when he appeared to warm up to Gachagua, praising him as “brave and fearless” after his impeachment. However, his recent declarations in Bondo during Odinga’s funeral suggest his loyalty remains firmly anchored in the opposition.
“ODM will not die. We have just begun the struggle. Mapambano imeanza sasa,” Arati told mourners, drawing cheers from the crowd.
