Gachagua: Ruto Ousted Me for Blocking Mt Kenya Region Division

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly criticized President William Ruto, alleging attempts to divide the Mt Kenya region.

Gachagua, who was impeached in October 2024, contends that his opposition to the proposed division—sought by Ruto to split the region into East and West—was a key factor behind his removal from office. The division in question refers to Central Kenya as the West and Meru, Embu, and Tharaka Nithi counties as the East.

During his remarks at the funeral service for Eric Mutugi, the son of former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti, Gachagua pledged to resist any attempts at regional fragmentation, underscoring the need for unity for the region's strength in negotiations for national resources. Despite his impeachment, he reassured residents that Mt Kenya remains resolute and vigilant against supporting leadership without scrutiny.

Gachagua also took aim at MPs from the Mt Kenya region who supported his impeachment, accusing them of being misled and asserting that they would face repercussions in the forthcoming elections. Moreover, he levelled accusations against the government, expressing concerns over the alleged abduction of Billy Munyiri Mwangi in Embu and demanded that the government produce Mwangi, either alive or deceased.

Former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi echoed Gachagua's sentiments, voicing concerns about the marginalization of Mt Kenya East in terms of development and political appointments. Tensions escalated during the funeral when mourners rejected condolences from President Ruto, prompting Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi to deliver the messages directly to Kivuti's family without reading them aloud.

Anglican Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit, who presided over the service, offered prayers for an end to abductions, stressing the importance of peace and addressing the issue of mysterious disappearances. Eric Mutugi, an Information Technology consultant, was laid to rest at his family's rural home in Kanyuambora, leaving behind a wife and two children.