Presidential aspirant in the 2022 general elections Reuben Kigame, has poked holes in the statement by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over Shamba System in Mau Forest.

Kigame appealed to Kenyans to defy the order, regretting that the move will adversely impact on forest cover.

According to the musician-cum politician, there’s a hidden agenda behind the order.

“Another bad start for the new government. There goes our forests at a time we are fighting climate change. Please watch and help me say no to the grabbing of our forests,” Kigame wrote on Twitter.

While addressing mourners at a funeral in Baringo on Saturday, DP Gachagua lashed out at the previous administration for banning farming activities in Mau Forest, in a bid to protect water sources.

Gachagua said “there’s no point in protecting trees whereas Kenyans stare at food crisis.”

“Why should we import maize when Kenyans can grow them?” He posed amid cheers from mourners.

Lawyer Miguna Miguna, a Kenya Kwanza ally, rose in support of Kigame saying, “I agree. Rigathi must avoid these kinds of roadside declarations. Farming in forests is a very bad idea.”

Further, Kajiado Senator Ledama Olekina slammed Gachagua, terming his order as impunity.

“There is no Shamba System in Mau Forest so whoever thinks the DP is above the law dream on.”

While addressing the 77th United Nations General Assembly session on Thursday in New York, USA, President William Ruto attributed the escalating food crisis to Climate change and global warming.

Kenyans also expressed varied reactions towards the Deputy President’s outburst.

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