Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has once again ignited political debate after declaring that he and his allies would “kill the snake together with its eggs” through the ballot, a metaphor he used while urging Kenyans to vote out President William Ruto and his political allies in the next General Election.
Addressing supporters during a political gathering, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader insisted that the opposition’s mission was to ensure a decisive electoral victory that would leave no room for what he termed the continuation of the current administration.
“Tutaua nyoka na mayai. Tutamalizana nao kupitia kura,” Gachagua declared, emphasizing that the battle would be fought democratically through the ballot box.
Gachagua explains remarks
The former deputy president maintained that his comments were political metaphors and should not be interpreted as calls for violence.
According to his camp, the phrase symbolized completely rejecting President Ruto’s leadership and ensuring that his political allies are also voted out during the next elections.
Political communication experts have long argued that figurative language plays a significant role in politics by helping leaders simplify complex ideas and rally supporters.
It is important to note that figurative language in politics is vital for public perception, with politicians frequently using metaphors, personification and hyperbole to effectively communicate their political messages.
Such expressions are generally intended to inspire supporters rather than encourage literal action.
Gachagua intensifies anti-Ruto campaign
The remarks come as Gachagua continues to intensify his criticism of President Ruto’s administration, accusing it of economic mismanagement, intimidation of political opponents and attempting to influence electoral processes.
In recent weeks, the former deputy president has repeatedly urged Kenyans to safeguard their votes and reject any form of voter manipulation ahead of future elections.
Following the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, Gachagua claimed the outcome demonstrated growing public dissatisfaction with the Kenya Kwanza administration, insisting that the opposition would build on the momentum heading into the 2027 General Election.
Mixed reactions from Kenyans
Gachagua’s “Tutaua Nyoka Na Mayai” remarks quickly spread across social media, attracting thousands of reactions from supporters and critics alike.
Some netizens interpreted the statement as a powerful political metaphor aimed at defeating the Kenya Kwanza administration through democratic means.
Others, however, argued that leaders should exercise caution with their choice of words, saying such language could easily be misunderstood in the country’s charged political environment.
Here are some of the reactions:
@MwangiKE: “It’s obvious he meant defeating them at the ballot. Politics has always used metaphors.”
@MercyWaKE: “Leaders should choose their words carefully because not everyone interprets figurative speech the same way.”
@Kimani254: “2027 will ultimately be decided by voters, not political slogans.”
@Njeri_W: “Whether you support him or not, the phrase has definitely sparked national conversation.”
Political temperatures continue to rise
With the 2027 General Election drawing closer, Kenya’s political rhetoric has become increasingly aggressive as both government and opposition leaders seek to energize their supporters.
Even as political competition intensifies, leaders have continued to urge Kenyans to maintain peace and resolve political differences through constitutional and democratic processes.
Gachagua has repeatedly maintained that his preferred weapon against President Ruto’s administration is the ballot box, insisting that Kenyans have the power to determine the country’s political future through free and fair elections.
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