Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro
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Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro, once regarded as a promising leader among the youth, is now primarily focused on his constituency amidst declining political fortunes.
This shift occurs amidst an escalating political battle for dominance in the Mt Kenya region between President William Ruto and ousted Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The rivalry has intensified, with Gachagua seeking to reclaim control of the region's substantial electoral base, which has historically supported Ruto. In response, the State House is implementing strategies to maintain the strong support it secured during the 2022 General Elections.
However, Nyoro's position is precarious, as Gachagua appears to exert considerable influence over the local political landscape and has committed to steering the region ahead of the 2027 elections. Following his impeachment in October 2024 and subsequent replacement by Professor Kithure Kindiki, Gachagua has issued warnings to Nyoro regarding the political repercussions of failing to conform to local expectations.
Gachagua's frustrations towards Nyoro stem from the MP's reluctance to voice opposition to the growing anti-government sentiments in Mt Kenya, particularly in the face of hostile receptions directed at both the president and his former deputy. Gachagua's supporters have begun to identify and groom potential candidates to challenge Nyoro in the upcoming elections.
In the 2022 elections, Nyoro successfully retained his parliamentary seat, earning 68,256 votes representing the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), while his closest rival, Karanja Mburu of the Jubilee Party, received 9,425 votes.
His political challenges escalated following his role as chairman of the Budget and Appropriations Committee, where he played a key part in the formulation of the controversial Finance Bill 2024, which included taxation measures deemed burdensome. This decision led to public protests, specifically targeting Nyoro and other prominent figures associated with President Ruto. Nyoro's silence during Gachagua's impeachment has added complexity to his political standing.
Once seen as a vital ally within Ruto's administration, his influence has waned. Previously a strong contender for Ruto’s running mate in 2022, Nyoro now faces growing opposition from local leaders who align themselves with Gachagua's camp. Since his initial rise as a trusted confidant of President Ruto—marked by public appearances and expressions of future leadership potential—Nyoro has struggled to assert himself as a contender against Gachagua for dominance in Mt Kenya.
Notably, local politicians have indicated that Gachagua is not included in the ruling UDA's succession discussions. As the 2027 elections approach, the political landscape in Mt Kenya remains volatile, placing Nyoro at a critical juncture.