Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga added fuel to the fire by criticizing the perceived trade-off between Cabinet positions and Gachagua’s marginalization. ‘We will not sacrifice our leader for political favours,’ Kahiga said. ‘If certain individuals accept these positions, they should remain in Nairobi because the people of Nyeri will not welcome them’
In a bold move that could reshape Kenya’s political landscape, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua declared Mt. Kenya’s intent to form a new political party, marking a sharp departure from the Kenya Kwanza administration. Speaking at Kinunga Baptist Church in Mukurweini, Nyeri County, Gachagua admitted that joining President William Ruto’s government without a concrete political structure had been a grave mistake.
“The Mt. Kenya community does not follow individuals but ideals,” Gachagua asserted. “Come next year, we will create a vehicle to champion our destiny. We cannot continue to endure the humiliation meted out by this administration.”
Gachagua, flanked by a host of political allies, including MPs, former legislators, and county assembly members, accused Kenya Kwanza of sidelining the Mt. Kenya region. He emphasized that betrayal had left an indelible scar on his community.
“Political analysts should stop speculating about our future,” he warned. “The Mt. Kenya community has endured betrayal, but we are not returning to Kenya Kwanza. The past has taught us to focus on our interests and ideals.”
Gachagua also alleged a sinister plot to destabilize the region by inciting chaos among Kikuyu youths, claiming that hired gangs were being used to provoke confrontations with his loyal supporters. “They started by dividing leaders; now they want to harm our youth. We will not tolerate this under any circumstance,” he stated.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga added fuel to the fire by criticizing the perceived trade-off between Cabinet positions and Gachagua’s marginalization. “We will not sacrifice our leader for political favors,” Kahiga said. “If certain individuals accept these positions, they should remain in Nairobi because the people of Nyeri will not welcome them.”
The brewing rebellion also exposed the discontent among senior politicians from the region. Former Nyeri Senator Mutahi Kagwe, former Laikipia Governor Ndiritu Muriithi, and former Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui admitted to being approached for Cabinet appointments. However, these overtures have stoked tensions further, with claims that such appointments are part of a broader scheme to weaken Gachagua’s influence.
Ichaweri Intrigue: Ruto, Raila, and the Kenyattas
Adding a twist to the unfolding political drama, reports indicate that a recent high-profile meeting at the Ichaweri home of the Kenyatta family in Gatundu is being linked to a broader political realignment. Sources allege that the discussions centred on forming a more inclusive executive, with more allies of ODM leader Raila Odinga poised to join President Ruto’s government. Meanwhile, allies of former President Uhuru Kenyatta remain tight-lipped.
Former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka downplayed the significance of the Ichaweri meeting. Speaking at the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa (AIPCA) in Kiambu County, Kalonzo highlighted the contrasting narratives from the Kenyatta-Ruto discussions.
“Uhuru emphasized the importance of a strong opposition in his statement, but Ruto’s remarks lacked similar depth,” Kalonzo noted, adding that these differences reflect an ongoing power struggle within the political elite.
The Road Ahead
As Mt. Kenya plots its next political chapter, Gachagua’s declaration signals an unprecedented challenge to Ruto’s authority. Whether this rebellion will culminate in a regional party capable of altering Kenya’s political dynamics remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Rigathi Gachagua’s Mt. Kenya allies are no longer content to play a supporting role in William Ruto’s government.
