President William Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua attended separate church services today, underscoring the simmering tensions between the two leaders.
President Ruto, who had been expected to join a church service in Embu, made a last-minute change and attended the Africa Inland Church (AIC) Milimani in Nairobi.
Meanwhile, Gachagua was at the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) Diocese in Embu for the diocese’s 34th-anniversary thanksgiving service at Kigari Teachers’ Training College.
President Ruto was accompanied by a host of political leaders at the AIC service in Nairobi.
Initially, he was slated to attend the same event as Gachagua in Embu but reportedly canceled after learning his deputy would be there. The move comes amid growing speculation of a rift between the two leaders, especially following Gachagua’s impeachment by the National Assembly, where 282 MPs voted in favor of the motion.
In contrast, Deputy President Gachagua attended the Embu service with his wife, Pastor Dorcas Gachagua.
Posting on social media before the service, Gachagua shared a Bible verse from Isaiah 2:3.
“Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the House of the God of Jacob, that He may teach us His ways and that we may walk in His paths. For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.” he posted.
He expressed joy at being part of the thanksgiving event, marking the diocese’s anniversary.
Political analysts view Gachagua’s visit to Embu as part of a broader political strategy to consolidate his support in Mount Kenya East, where several leaders have already openly endorsed Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki as Gachagua’s potential successor.
Leaders from Embu, Meru, and Tharaka Nithi have been rallying behind Kindiki, positioning him as the key link between the region and President Ruto.
The growing tension between Ruto and Gachagua has led to increasing speculation about the future of their political partnership, with analysts noting that the battle for control of Mount Kenya’s political leadership could further divide the region.
