Mount Kenya Leaders Clash Over Political Loyalty as Kindiki Challenges Former DP Gachagua

Jubilee Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni has publicly criticized Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga's comments regarding Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata.

Kioni describes Kahiga's remarks as "unwarranted and unacceptable," asserting that such divisive political rhetoric is not suitable for the Mount Kenya region. Kioni’s statements emerge following Kahiga's remarks during the funeral of William Nderitu, the father of Laikipia Senator John Kinyua, where Kahiga questioned Kang’ata's political allegiance and suggested potential electoral ramifications for not aligning with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Kahiga emphasized the need for regional unity and urged Kang’ata to heed the sentiments of local constituents, warning that failure to adhere to Gachagua's leadership could lead to electoral challenges. In his defence, Governor Kang’ata has opted to concentrate on delivering on his campaign promises rather than engaging in political disputes. He reiterates his commitment to addressing the needs of Murang’a residents, following guidance from President William Ruto.

"When President Ruto and Gachagua came to Murang’a, they instructed me to focus on delivering services and finding solutions to our citizens’ challenges," Kang’ata declares.

This exchange reflects the ongoing political realignments as the region gears up for the 2027 general elections. Meanwhile, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has publicly declared his intention to lead a campaign against his predecessor Rigathi Gachagua following Gachagua's critical televised interview in which he denounced the Kenya Kwanza administration from his residence in Wamunyoro. Kindiki's remarks suggest that the former Deputy President is acting out of fear as the current government begins to regain support.

In a meeting with approximately 2,700 leaders from various sectors across 12 constituencies in Kiambu County, Kindiki addressed Gachagua's recent comments and stated, "The former DP should be panicking over the consultative forums we are holding. He hasn't seen anything yet. We will run him out of town." He emphasized that Gachagua does not hold authority over the region, asserting the government's commitment to fulfilling its promises to the Kenyan people, regardless of the popularity of its initiatives.

Kindiki praises President William Ruto as a transformative leader, confident in his decision-making regardless of political risks, stating, "Threats of one-term do not bother him."

Since assuming office, Kindiki has been actively engaging with grassroots leaders at his Karen residence, focusing on communicating the government's projects to local constituents. To date, he has convened with representatives from more than eight counties, with additional meetings planned in the upcoming days.