Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has claimed that some leaders from Northern Kenya attempted to prevent journalists from conducting a roundtable interview with him at his Karen residence.
Gachagua said the interview was planned with radio stations from Mandera, Garissa, Marsabit, Wajir and Isiolo, and was later broadcast online through North Eastern Digital Media.
Earlier in the day, a photo circulated suggesting that the interview was scheduled to involve North Eastern media stations.
Hours before the interview, a statement purportedly from Northern Kenya media practitioners said the group had collectively decided to cancel the planned interview after “careful consideration and internal deliberations.”
However, the interview proceeded with one journalist present.
In the statement, the journalists said proceeding with the interview would not align with their principles of responsible journalism, national unity and constructive public discourse.
They added that recent public statements and rhetoric had become increasingly divisive, often emphasising ethnic and regional divisions at a time when Kenya needed voices that unite rather than polarise.
The statement also said the group was concerned the interview could turn into character assassination or the dissemination of unsubstantiated allegations against individuals or institutions without adequate evidence or balanced, fact-based discussion.
“As a media outlet committed to upholding ethical standards, fostering informed debate, and promoting peace and cohesion in our society, we cannot in good conscience provide a platform that risks amplifying such harmful narratives,” the statement read.
The group said the decision was not taken lightly, noting they valued the importance of giving public figures an opportunity to address the nation directly.
However, they said assurances that the discussion would remain respectful, evidence-based and focused on substantive issues were not provided.
They added that they regretted any inconvenience caused and said they remained open to future engagements should circumstances change and there be a clear commitment to constructive and unifying dialogue.
During the interview, Gachagua responded to claims that he promotes tribal narratives and sidelines Northern Kenya, describing them as propaganda aimed at creating tension between residents of Mt. Kenya and Northern Kenya.
He highlighted the longstanding relationship between the two communities and said they share common interests, particularly in business.
On criticism from leaders in North Eastern Kenya regarding development, Gachagua said the people of the region had not raised concerns about his leadership.
He said the main issue for residents was accountability from their leaders.
Gachagua said the five counties in Northern Kenya have received development funding since 2013, but said progress has not been visible on the ground.
He said local leadership had not utilised available resources effectively.
On infrastructure development, Gachagua said sufficient resources exist to elevate Northern Kenya’s counties to the level of other regions in the country.
He also said students are competing for limited educational resources.
He concluded by stressing the importance of holding regional leaders accountable, saying residents have faced long-term hardship.