After successfully ousting Rigathi Gachagua as Deputy President, President William Ruto’s allies in the Mt Kenya region are gearing up for a major political comeback.
Facing a wave of hostility and backlash from constituents upset over Gachagua’s removal, these politicians are strategizing regional tours disguised as development meetings to restore their standing.
The atmosphere is tense in Mt Kenya, where MPs and Senators who voted for Gachagua’s impeachment are encountering significant backlash on social media.
Many have opted to withdraw from public engagements, disabling comments on their posts to shield themselves from criticism and anger from voters.
With public sentiment turning against them, Ruto’s allies are mobilizing for aggressive outreach efforts during the upcoming Christmas break.
Plans for back-to-back public events, including high-profile funerals and church gatherings, have already been finalized to reinforce their influence in the region.
The strategy will culminate in Deputy President Kithure Kindiki’s anticipated homecoming later this year, with President Ruto expected to attend.
Leaders are currently assessing the mood of the electorate to finalize the venue for this significant event.
As part of their messaging, politicians are framing Kindiki’s appointment as a unifying force within the government, emphasizing that it will facilitate the implementation of developmental programs.
Buuri MP Kindiki Murwithania stated, “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.”
To further bolster their agenda, the politicians aim to highlight how Gachagua’s leadership was detrimental to development in the Mt Kenya region, with President Ruto set to launch several high-impact projects designed to resonate with the electorate.
Mbeere MP Geoffrey Ruku reaffirmed their commitment to advancing development, stating, “It is the development that unites us… that is what the president will bring to the table.”
Insiders reveal that the upcoming projects are crucial for Ruto’s allies as they prepare for the 2027 elections. The multi-faceted strategy involves focusing on development rather than criticizing Gachagua during rallies.
However, tension remains palpable, as Muranga Senator Joe Nyotu, a Gachagua supporter, has alleged that there are plans to undermine the former DP.
He claims there is a scheme to portray Gachagua as a target of political persecution, suggesting that his critics might use an arrest narrative to reposition themselves favorably with voters.
Nyotu warned, “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.”
This approach mirrors tactics previously used by MPs who faced backlash over the Finance Bill, 2024, which provoked widespread protests and forced President Ruto to withdraw the controversial tax measures.
