Deputy President Kithure Kindiki is reportedly set to hold a highly anticipated homecoming celebration in his home county of Tharaka Nithi, with President William Ruto expected to attend as the chief guest.
While the exact date has yet to be confirmed, sources close to the planning reveal that this event will be symbolic, aiming to assert Kindiki’s influence in the Mount Kenya region and to solidify support for the Kenya Kwanza administration after the contentious ouster of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
This homecoming is viewed as an inaugural public event for Kindiki in his new role, with a focus on rallying the regional political base and reinforcing the administration’s development agenda.
According to political analysts, this homecoming is being strategically crafted to reestablish confidence among voters and signal a new chapter of unity.
they argue that the choice of Mount Kenya as the venue highlights the administration’s recognition of the region’s political significance and underscores Ruto’s intent to maintain a solid foothold in the area, which holds substantial electoral value.
Buuri MP Kindiki Murwithania during a recent media interview emphasized the importance of Kindiki’s elevation as a stabilizing factor, explaining that his appointment was intended to bring cohesion and a renewed development focus within the government.
“The elevation of Kithure Kindiki to the second highest office in the land was for purposes of bringing harmony in government so that it can concentrate on endearing itself to citizens through rapid development,” he remarked.
Amid these developments, the lingering influence of Rigathi Gachagua continues to shape the political landscape in Mount Kenya.
Following Gachagua’s impeachment, some leaders in the region, especially those who supported his tenure, are reportedly grappling with backlash from constituents who have expressed anger and disappointment.
Social media channels have been rife with criticism, with several MPs and Senators who supported the impeachment opting to restrict their online presence and limit public engagements to avoid further controversy.
Kindiki’s homecoming is seen as an opportunity to reset the narrative and ease tensions with pro-Gachagua supporters.
President Ruto’s presence at the event is anticipated to serve as a powerful statement of unity and to reinforce the new leadership’s commitment to Mount Kenya’s development.
According to sources, the homecoming and subsequent regional tours are part of a broader effort to mitigate any lingering discontent in the region and to reassure residents that the government remains committed to addressing their needs.
Ruto’s endorsement of Kindiki at the homecoming event is expected to project a seamless transition and affirm Kenya Kwanza’s vision for growth and stability in Mount Kenya.
The homecoming is expected to be marked by significant developmental announcements intended to resonate with the electorate and demonstrate tangible progress in addressing local issues.
High-impact projects, especially in infrastructure, healthcare, and education, are likely to be highlighted as part of the administration’s efforts to meet the needs of a region that has historically prioritized economic empowerment and development.
These initiatives are not only essential for regaining political trust but are also crucial to preparing the ground for the 2027 general election, where the administration will need strong regional support.
In response to the tensions surrounding Gachagua’s removal, Kenya Kwanza strategists are taking a carefully balanced approach.
A key element of the messaging at Kindiki’s homecoming is expected to downplay any direct criticism of Gachagua, with an emphasis instead on development and unity.
This stance is a deliberate attempt to appeal to pro-Gachagua supporters without reigniting the divisions caused by the impeachment.
By avoiding any inflammatory rhetoric, Ruto’s team aims to retain Gachagua’s supporters who may feel alienated, while focusing on the development gains Kindiki’s leadership is projected to bring to the region.
Yet, the undercurrents of Mount Kenya’s political dynamics remain complex.
Murang’a Senator Joe Nyotu, a Gachagua ally, recently alleged that there are covert plans to undermine the former Deputy President’s influence, including rumors of potential legal actions aimed at weakening his political stance.
Nyotu suggested that some leaders might capitalize on these allegations to publicly defend Gachagua, positioning themselves as advocates for his cause to gain favor with his loyal followers.
“I hear there is a comeback plan being devised that entails sponsored propaganda that Gachagua will be arrested and charged in court. Those in Mt Kenya who sanctioned his impeachment will then come out to launch his defense, urging the President Ruto regime not to persecute Gachagua further, and in the process appear to be fighting for him,” he asserted.
This tactic mirrors a previous strategy employed by MPs when the Finance Bill, 2024, incited significant public protests and forced President Ruto to withdraw certain tax measures.
Lawmakers who initially faced backlash for their support of the bill rebranded themselves as defenders of the public’s interest, ultimately diffusing the tension.
By using a similar approach, the administration hopes to consolidate support while diverting attention to positive governance outcomes.
For Ruto and Kindiki, this homecoming is more than a celebratory gathering; it represents a critical moment in securing the political loyalty of the Mount Kenya region and managing internal rifts.
By casting the event as a showcase of developmental achievements and unity, Ruto’s administration aims to transcend the setbacks of Gachagua’s impeachment, marking a path forward that underscores progress and stability.
Analysts argue that as the final details are ironed out, all eyes in Mount Kenya remain fixed on this event, with the region’s political future and the administration’s broader agenda at stake.
