Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua made a bold move to establish himself as the dominant political figure in the Mt Kenya region, challenging his rival Ndindi Nyoro’s influence in Murang’a. Gachagua, unlike Nyoro, who had earlier garnered support from 15 MPs in January for a potential role as President William Ruto’s running mate in 2027, orchestrated a show of strength by rallying 117 legislators during a recent visit to Nyoro’s home turf.
In a surprising turn of events, Nyoro and his supporters publicly declared their backing for Gachagua, effectively giving the former Mathira MP the upper hand and solidifying his claim as the new political leader of Mt Kenya following the retirement of former President Uhuru Kenyatta.
While political analysts are cautious about prematurely declaring Gachagua’s control over the region, Moi University lecturer and political analyst Nyaga Kindiki acknowledges that effective political maneuvering could position Gachagua as the key figure in Mt Kenya. Kindiki emphasizes the importance of gaining support from President Ruto and his Rift Valley base, especially following the recent call by the Head of State to end succession debates in the region.
Gachagua, aiming for stability within the Kenya Kwanza outfit, seeks to address the challenges facing the country alongside Deputy President Ruto. However, the Nyoro issue is seen as a reflection of political rivalry among leaders from Kiambu and Murang’a who perceive themselves as having more significant influence in Central Kenya politics compared to leaders from other areas like Nyeri, Kirinyaga, and Meru.
During the recent gathering, Nyoro, despite being on his home ground, conceded to Gachagua’s leadership, stating, “There is no confusion that President Ruto is our team leader, while Mr. Gachagua is the deputy captain, and the rest of the calculations are in the hands of God.” Nyoro reaffirmed his support for Gachagua and acknowledged him as his “boss and friend.”
Gachagua used the opportunity to assert his role as the defender of the region’s interests, emphasizing his experience and commitment to preventing division within Mt Kenya. He highlighted historical challenges faced by the region when it failed to unite under past presidents.
The meeting not only aimed to demonstrate unity but also served as a warning against those attempting to divide the vote-rich Mt Kenya region. Gachagua positioned himself as a guarantor of Mt Kenya’s interests within the Ruto administration and stressed the need for unity between Mt Kenya and Rift Valley regions.
While the large turnout of Rift Valley leaders at the event signaled potential support for Gachagua, political observers believe that the succession debate ignited by Nyoro could have politically impacted him. Gachagua framed his speech around the call for unity in preparation for the 2027 polls and positioned himself as the advocate for Mt Kenya’s interests in the upcoming political landscape. The public display of unity was viewed as a significant move to solidify Gachagua’s standing as Mt Kenya’s political leader.
Local leaders echoed the sentiment of unity, emphasizing the region’s need to stand together. Despite the political ambitions of individual leaders, there was a collective call to avoid divisive politics and present a united front. Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome urged Mt Kenya leaders to refrain from reading different scripts and emphasized the importance of respecting the Kenya Kwanza government.
As President Ruto plans a development tour of Kiambu, Murang’a, and Nyeri counties, the political dynamics within Mt Kenya remain fluid, with Gachagua working to consolidate his position and Nyoro adjusting to the evolving landscape.
