DP Rigathi Gachagua and Ndindi Nyoro's Supremacy Battle in Mt Kenya Intensifies

Political power struggles in the Mt Kenya region have reached their peak, with two prominent factions emerging.

In recent months, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro have been at the forefront of a power struggle in the region. However, tensions reached a boiling point on Thursday when Nyoro garnered support from 18 leaders of the United Democratic Alliance, a party that primarily represents Mt Kenya. This endorsement appears to solidify his position as President William Ruto's potential successor in 2032.

The endorsement is a strong indication that Nyoro is ready to confront Gachagua's attempt to become the political leader of the region and position himself as a potential candidate for the presidency once Ruto's term is over. Nyoro secured the endorsement for the 2032 presidential elections while launching an education subsidy program for secondary school students at Mumbi grounds, where they will only need to pay a reduced fee of 1,000 shillings per term,

Leaders present at the event included, Josses Lelmengit (Emgwen), Jematiah Sergon (Baringo), Paul Mwirigi (Igembe South), Didmas Barasa (Kimilili), Shurie Omar (Balambala), Fred Ikana (Shinyalu), Elijah Kururi (Gatundu North), Paul Biego (Chesumei), and Ann Wamuratha (Kiambu) are among the individuals involved in this ongoing power struggle. Additionally, Patrick Munene (Igambang’ombe), Edwin Mugo (Mathioya), Eric Muchang (Runyenjes), Njoki Njeru (Embu), Dorice Donya (Kisii), and former nominated MP Wilson Sossion.

The clash between these two groups has illuminated an uprising against Mr Gachagua, who is already grappling with internal troubles stemming from former Mungiki leader Maina Njenga's assertion of leadership in the area. Mr Gachagua holds the belief that his status as the country's second-in-command automatically entitles him to succeed President Ruto. However, certain political figures contend that merely holding the position of Deputy President does not ensure his acceptance by the region. Senator Nyutu stresses that occupying a prominent position does not guarantee unanimous backing, as there are additional factors to take into account.

Ms Donya holds the belief that Mr Nyoro possesses greater potential for succeeding President Ruto and she urges the Mount Kenya region to support him. On the contrary, Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi, a close associate of Mr Gachagua, dismisses the ongoing political discussions as normal and unremarkable