Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has launched a sharp attack on his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua, dismissing claims that he is the political kingpin of Mt Kenya. Speaking at a campaign rally on Wednesday, Kindiki emphasized that he is the region’s senior-most political leader.
“I have not said this, but let me address it today, this habit of declaring yourself leader of Mt Kenya who chose you?” Kindiki said, in remarks clearly directed at Gachagua.
The Deputy President, who has largely remained silent in past regional leadership debates, asserted that his primary role is assisting President William Ruto in managing the nation’s affairs. However, he made it clear that when it comes to Mt Kenya, he outranks anyone claiming the region’s political mantle.
“I am helping the president in leading the country and the development of the whole country and the 47 counties,” he said. “But when I am home, I am the senior-most political leader in Mt Kenya region for the avoidance of doubt.”
Kindiki added pointedly, “Niko ndani. Uko nje na unatuambia wewe ndio kusema hapa” — loosely translating to, “I am on the inside (government). You are outside, and yet you are telling us you are the one in charge.”
The remarks come amid an intensifying political turf war in Mt Kenya, with leaders positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 and 2032 elections. Both Kindiki and Gachagua have been actively campaigning in Mbeere North ahead of the November 27 by-elections.
Kindiki is rallying support for UDA candidate Leo Muriuki, known as Wamuthende, warning opposition forces against undermining the government’s credibility. Meanwhile, Gachagua is conducting a door-to-door campaign for DCP candidate Newton Kariuki, also known as Karis, criticizing Kindiki’s campaign as state-sponsored and alleging misuse of government resources.
The rivalry highlights the ongoing struggle for political influence in Mt Kenya, as both leaders leverage their positions to consolidate support ahead of the next electoral cycles.
