Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has found himself increasingly isolated within his Mount Kenya political base in recent weeks.
Once regarded as the region’s unifying leader, his position is now under threat, particularly after claims of government intimidation against his supporters.
The challenges facing Gachagua have grown, as his previously solid support base begins to fracture.
Gachagua’s political ascent was propelled by the unwavering backing of Mt. Kenya leaders, who viewed him as their natural successor following the retirement of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
However, recent political developments have exposed divisions in what was once a cohesive group.
During a fundraiser for women’s empowerment in Kesses, Uasin Gishu, Gachagua accused Rift Valley leaders close to President William Ruto of destabilizing his home region.
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He alleged that these leaders, along with younger political figures from Mt. Kenya, are working to undermine his authority with an eye on the 2032 elections.
“The problem lies with certain leaders from the Rift Valley who are close to the president,” Gachagua said. “They are interfering with our politics, encouraging people to plan ahead for 2032, and that is the root cause of the division.”
Yet, Gachagua maintains that Mt. Kenya remains united despite these challenges.
Reflecting on past political struggles, he acknowledged that many of the same individuals who once mobilized opposition to former President Kenyatta are now working against him.
In an unexpected admission, Gachagua expressed regret for his criticism of Kenyatta during the 2022 election, attributing it to misinformation.
Determined to regain control, Gachagua has embarked on a campaign to unify the region. He has made numerous public appearances, seeking forgiveness from local communities and urging them not to turn against their own leaders.
“Let us not be envious of our sister who married a rich husband, for he may even help educate our children,” he remarked, using an analogy to promote unity. “When we see our youth being used to divide us, I urge you to advise them against such divisions.”
However, political analysts, like Edwi Mwangi, argue that Gachagua’s calls for unity mask a deeper attempt to consolidate power within a small inner circle, sidelining dissenting voices.
“This is not about regional unity but rather about power concentration,” Mwangi contended, warning that such moves threaten to further divide the region.
This growing rift has drawn criticism from within President Ruto’s camp.
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah publicly challenged Gachagua’s regional focus, calling on him to embrace a more national perspective.
“If we truly believe in unity, then we must aim to unite all Kenyans, not just the people of Mt. Kenya,” Ichung’wah stated, emphasizing the importance of national cohesion.
Despite these criticisms, some Murang’a leaders, including Maragua MP Mary Waithera, have rallied behind Gachagua, accusing his detractors of working against the unity of Mt. Kenya.
Waithera questioned why efforts to consolidate the region’s leadership have been met with such resistance, reaffirming her support for Gachagua’s leadership.
Further complicating the situation, Emurua Dikirr MP Johana Ngeno urged Gachagua to be cautious of those attempting to create division between him and President Ruto.
“Remember, the president trusts you,” Ngeno said, warning against leaders who seek to sow discord between the two leaders.
Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri has also addressed the ongoing debates surrounding the recent Nyahururu Declaration, a regional development-focused meeting.
Kiunjuri emphasized that the gathering was aimed at promoting growth and prosperity in Mt. Kenya, rather than undermining Gachagua’s role.
He expressed frustration that discussions have centered on Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki’s role in the region, rather than the broader goals of the declaration, which are focused on regional development.
