Amisi's remarks, shared on X (formerly Twitter) on January 8, 2026, come amid escalating tensions over Gachagua's recent comments on ethnic representation in national schools, which critics have labeled as divisive and tribalistic.
Amisi, a vocal ODM lawmaker known for his unfiltered takes on national politics, accused Gachagua of perpetuating "tribal bigotry" that inadvertently portrays Ruto in a saintly light.
"Is Gachagua really working for opposition or for Ruto?! His continuous tribal bigotry is making Ruto look like Jesus Christ of Nazareth," Amisi wrote.
He specifically took issue with Gachagua's alleged suggestion that prestigious institutions like Alliance High School and Mang'u High School should primarily admit Kikuyu students, arguing that such rhetoric undermines national unity.
"How can you just say Alliance high and Mangu should only admit Kikuyu students? Bwana how did our nation descend to this!" Amisi exclaimed, urging leaders to reject tribal politics before it "sinks the nation."
The controversy stems from Gachagua's statements during a recent public address, where he reportedly decried the placement of high-achieving students from the Mt. Kenya region into what he described as "small or undeveloped schools" despite meeting selection criteria.
Critics, including online commentators, interpreted this as an implicit call for ethnic favoritism in education allocations, fueling accusations of tribal chauvinism.
Gachagua, who leads the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) and has positioned himself as a key opposition figure since his impeachment in October 2024, has faced similar backlash before.
Political analyst Ahmednasir Abdullahi previously branded him "tribal chauvinist Number 1," highlighting a pattern of ethnic rhetoric that divides rather than unites.
This is not the first time Amisi has clashed with Gachagua. In December 2025, Amisi cautioned the former deputy president against encouraging voters to accept government handouts while voting against the ruling party, warning that such tactics could backfire for leaders without a strong development track record.
The latest exchange occurs against a backdrop of shifting alliances in Kenyan politics, particularly following the death of opposition stalwart Raila Odinga in 2025, which has left ODM grappling with internal turmoil and realignments.
Gachagua has been actively courting figures like Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna and Embakasi East MP Babu Owino to defect from ODM, hinting at potential shifts during a funeral in Murang'a County on January 3, 2026.
However, such moves have drawn sharp rebukes, with ODM activist Kasmuel McOure dismissing Gachagua as a "tribal bigot" unfit to lure party members.
Amisi's post emphasizes the need for a "renaissance" in Kenyan politics, advocating for a unified nation of 43 ethnic communities over ethnic silos. "Kikuyu alone cannot make you a president.
You need others and Kenya must be one," he stated, warning that Gachagua's approach risks alienating broader support.
Observers note that Gachagua's influence appears strongest in ethnic strongholds, but his style often described as "us vs. them" limits his national appeal.
Is Gachagua really working for opposition or for Ruto?!
— Hon. Caleb Amisi, MP (@Honcalebamisi) January 8, 2026
His continous tribal bigotry is making Ruto look like Jesus Christ of Nazareth .
How can you just say Alliance high and Mangu should only admit Kikuyu students?
Bwana how did our nation descend to this !
Someone…
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