Gachagua Vows to Spearhead 'One Man One Shilling' Campaign

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has unequivocally pledged his unwavering commitment to spearheading a campaign for equitable resource allocation based on the principle of "one man, one shilling."

This stance was articulated during his address at the consecration of Bishop John Kimani Nthiga at the ACK Cathedral of St. Peter's in Mbeere, Siakago, Embu County, on Sunday, May 12. Gachagua's pronouncement comes in response to concerns raised by Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire regarding the perceived inadequate funding received by the Mt Kenya region including Embu, despite its substantial population. The Deputy President's advocacy for the "one-man, one-vote, one-shilling" formula marks a striking departure from his previous opposition to the same principle under the previous administration.

Defending his newfound position, Gachagua highlights the link between resources and population dynamics. He contends that regions with larger populations inherently contribute more through taxation, thus warranting a proportionate share of resource allocation. This perspective is further reinforced by his observation of the disparity faced by the Mt Kenya region, which grapples with resource-intensive projects and pressing needs yet receives disproportionately meagre financial support. Gachagua's dissatisfaction with the current allocation system is further exemplified by his citation of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocations.

He decries the inequity of a constituency like Ruiru, with a population of nearly 800,000, receiving the same CDF allocation as a constituency with a mere 14,000 residents. This stark contrast, he asserts, underscores the urgency for reform to ensure fairness in the distribution of CDF resources. While acknowledging the region's high population as a driving factor, Gachagua was unequivocal in emphasizing that the campaign's objective transcends mere numerical superiority.

Furthermore, he pledges to advocate for the inclusion of more Mt Kenya regions as beneficiaries of the equalization fund, a financial instrument specifically designed to support infrastructure development and other critical socioeconomic projects in marginalized counties. Governor Mbarire had previously voiced concerns over Embu's exclusion from the equalization fund, despite the region's classification as Arid and Semi-Arid Land (ASAL). Gachagua assures that this issue is already under active consideration and that he intends to declare other constituencies in the Mt Kenya region as marginalized, thereby enabling them to benefit from the equalization fund.