Gachagua’s Unity Call Meets Resistance in Mount Kenya Political Landscape

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua experienced a busy week filled with public engagements and political activities.

His agenda included issuing warnings to certain Mount Kenya leaders, advocating for regional unity, and addressing various government officials. During a wedding ceremony in Kiambu County, Gachagua delivered a stern message to some Mount Kenya leaders whom he accused of acting against the region’s interests. He cautioned that these individuals, whom he labelled as ‘rebels’, might face electoral defeat in the 2027 general elections if they fail to change course. Gachagua asserted that the residents of Mount Kenya have already put these leaders on notice.

At the same event, the Deputy President reiterated his call for unity within the Mount Kenya region. He urged residents to collaborate and disregard succession politics and advised MPs from the area to focus on development and issues affecting the populace rather than engaging in premature succession debates. Gachagua emphasized the need for a unified approach to regional matters. However, Gachagua’s efforts to promote unity were met with opposition from some quarters. A group of his critics, led by Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri, convened in Eldoret to strategize on countering Gachagua’s influence.

The meeting, attended by over 300 representatives of the Kikuyu community and several MPs, argued that Gachagua should accept the new political dynamics and refrain from undermining President William Ruto. Amidst these political manoeuvres, Gachagua shared a cordial moment with former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria. While Kuria echoed Gachagua’s sentiments on unity, he cautioned against dividing the region over succession politics. Gachagua, in turn, wished Kuria well in his future endeavours, suggesting that new opportunities often arise when others close. In addition to his political engagements, Gachagua met with National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs) at the Kenya School of Government in Lower Kabete.

He urged these officers to closely oversee the implementation of government programs and projects in their respective jurisdictions. Gachagua stressed that as representatives of President Ruto on the ground, they must ensure the timely and effective delivery of planned projects. Meanwhile, the President has appointed Moses Kuria to a senior advisory role within the Council of Economic Advisors. This strategic move is intended to bolster the implementation of the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Agenda plan, reflecting a commitment to inclusive economic growth and development.