Former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu has subtly criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, just a day after he met and shook hands with President William Ruto during a public function in Laikipia County.
In a Facebook post on Friday, October 24, 2025, Wambugu questioned why Gachagua continues to harbor what he described as “unnecessary bitterness” toward leaders who choose to associate with or even greet the President.
“The Gachagua doctrine says you can’t have friends who work in Ruto’s government; attend their functions; or be associated with them in any way,” Wambugu wrote. He further mocked the notion, calling it absurd and divisive.
His comments came a day after he posted a photo of himself shaking hands with Ruto — a gesture that sparked criticism from Gachagua’s allies, who accused him of betrayal. Wambugu dismissed the backlash, terming it “immature” and “cult-like.”
“And you guys say this isn’t a cult? Ati hii picha inakasirisha watu wa Gachagua kwa nini? Yaani ni lazima tukosane na Ruto sisi zote mpaka tukikutana na yeye tusimsalimie, ili tufurahishe Gachagua?” he posed.
The remarks underscore deepening divisions within the Mt Kenya political bloc following Gachagua’s fallout with Ruto earlier this year. Once a united Kenya Kwanza stronghold, the region is now split between those loyal to the President and others standing with the former deputy.
Wambugu urged Mt Kenya leaders to prioritize unity and service delivery over political grudges. “We can disagree politically but still remain civil. Shaking someone’s hand is not a betrayal; it’s humanity,” he stated.
Political analysts say Wambugu’s tone mirrors a growing shift among central Kenya leaders seeking to rebuild bridges with Ruto’s administration — a move that could reshape the region’s political landscape ahead of 2027.
