Ngunjiri Wambugu Dumps Gachagua, Aligns with Uhuru’s Jubilee Party

Former Nyeri Town Member of Parliament Ngunjiri Wambugu has rejoined the Jubilee Party, effectively distancing himself from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and opposing the burgeoning movement for a unified Mt. Kenya political entity. 

The move comes amid intense speculation surrounding the region's political direction and the broader national political landscape leading up to the 2027 elections. Wambugu, speaking in a recent televised interview, affirmed the need for inclusive political strategies, dismissing the notion of consolidating Mt. Kenya under a single regional party. He cautions against the potential perils of political isolation, asserting that such a regionally focused party could depress voter turnout and stifle democratic competition. 

He posits that the multiparty system has historically driven high voter engagement in Mt. Kenya, contrasting this with areas dominated by single-party systems, where participation is often lower. Despite past collaborative efforts with Gachagua, Wambugu clarifies the nature of their association, stating that his involvement was primarily professional. He served as a communications strategist tasked with improving Gachagua’s public image in the face of mounting criticism. 

However, this arrangement concluded following Gachagua's impeachment in October 2024, an event that triggered significant political aftershocks throughout the region. Wambugu voices concerns over what he characterizes as unwarranted personal attacks following his departure from Gachagua’s circle. He refutes allegations of extorting funds from visitors to Gachagua’s Wamunyoro residence, dismissing them as baseless attempts to tarnish his reputation. 

He emphasizes his commitment to ethical political conduct, advocating for constructive dialogue rather than character assassination among leaders. His return to Jubilee is widely interpreted as a strategic maneuver in preparation for the 2027 elections. As he contemplates a return to Nyeri Town politics, Wambugu aims to forge an independent political path rather than aligning himself rigidly with any particular faction. 

He rejects any suggestion that his political prospects hinge on loyalty to Gachagua, arguing that voters should be empowered to elect leaders based on merit rather than party affiliations, which have historically dominated Mt. Kenya politics. Nationally, Wambugu acknowledges the evolving political climate and urges leaders not to underestimate President William Ruto’s resilience. Drawing parallels to former presidents Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta, he suggests that Ruto, despite initial challenges, still has the potential to serve a full decade in office. 

Dismissing Ruto’s chances prematurely, he argues, would be a politically unwise move. These remarks come as Mt. Kenya leaders grapple with a complex political landscape, which includes Gachagua’s controversial proposal to establish a regional political party. While some local leaders have voiced support for the idea, others question its feasibility and its impact on broader national political dynamics. Wambugu warns that such a move could inadvertently weaken the region's bargaining power by diminishing its participation in national politics.