“Gachagua Was Right” – Junet Reignites Debate After Echoing Gachagua’s Shareholding Narrative

The debate over Kenya’s political “shareholding” narrative has resurfaced following remarks by Suna East MP Junet Mohamed, who openly supported the controversial position that political support should influence access to government power.

Junet’s comments echo arguments previously advanced by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, whose statements on political shareholding later became one of the grounds cited during his impeachment.

The narrative holds that political parties or regions that deliver votes to the winning side deserve a proportionate share of government appointments and influence.

Speaking at a public event, Junet argued that broad-based political parties that fail to support a sitting president should not expect to benefit from Cabinet slots or key government positions.

He stated that voting is a transactional process and that political rewards should follow electoral support.

Junet went further to say that if a party wants influence in government, it must first demonstrate loyalty at the ballot.

According to him, future elections will demand clarity, with voters expecting tangible benefits in return for their support.

These remarks closely mirror the arguments that once placed Gachagua at the center of national controversy.

As Deputy President, Gachagua repeatedly suggested that Kenya Kwanza supporters were “shareholders” in government and should therefore receive a greater share of development and appointments.

Critics argued that such views undermined constitutional principles of equality, national unity, and inclusivity.

Lawmakers and civil society groups accused Gachagua of promoting ethnic and political exclusion, claims that later featured prominently during his impeachment proceedings.

Junet’s statements have now reignited debate over whether the shareholding narrative is inherently unconstitutional or simply an uncomfortable political truth.

Supporters say it reflects political reality, while opponents warn it risks deepening divisions and weakening democracy.