Tensions are flaring between two prominent figures: National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The political skirmish between these leaders underscores the complex and often contentious nature of regional politics in Kenya.
For weeks now, Ichung’wah has taken a confrontational stance against Gachagua, accusing him of fueling divisive politics in the region. Ichung’wah’s remarks against leaders who sow discord based on tribe, religion, and political affiliations have been sharp and unrelenting. This critique reflects deeper concerns about the political maneuvering and alleged schemes in Mt Kenya, where Gachagua is perceived as a key player.
Amid these political crossfires, Gachagua has been mobilizing regional leaders, asserting that there are attempts to undermine his position and sway President William Ruto against him. The Deputy President has warned that leaders who defy his calls for unity risk facing the wrath of their constituents by December. His statements at a wedding in Kiambu on August 11 conveyed a clear message: political loyalty will be scrutinized, and consequences will follow for those who stray from his agenda.
Gachagua’s hardline stance has drawn criticism from President Ruto, who has called for an end to ethnic-based politics and urged leaders to focus on national unity and transformation. Ruto’s comments on June 2, during a church service in Bungoma, highlighted his concern about divisive rhetoric, reinforcing his vision for a united Kenya.
Ichung’wah’s criticisms have intensified following Gachagua’s warning and his attempts to rally support within the region. During a homecoming ceremony for Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi on August 29, Ichung’wah denounced leaders who he believes are using tribalism for personal gain. He has also mocked efforts to obstruct opposition leader Raila Odinga from engaging with Ruto’s government, which he views as futile.
The dispute has been further fueled by Gachagua’s own controversial statements. On August 4, Gachagua claimed responsibility for setting up “traps” to prevent Raila Odinga from joining the government through what he described as backdoor tactics. His assertion that these traps were so effective that Odinga’s first meeting with Ruto occurred outside Kenya has only added to the political drama.
In response to accusations of undermining regional development, Ichung’wah has leveled serious allegations against Gachagua and his allies. He has accused them of sabotaging reforms in key sectors like tea, coffee, and milk, suggesting these actions are intended to discredit Ruto’s administration and benefit a select few. Ichung’wah’s public challenge to lawyer Ahmednasir Abdullahi to reveal the names behind these alleged schemes underscores his determination to expose what he perceives as systemic corruption and mismanagement.
Gachagua, who has been pivotal in implementing President Ruto’s Coffee Sub-Sector Reforms Implementation Standing Committee, faces growing scrutiny. His role has become contentious, with some regional leaders dismissing his efforts as illusory and failing to address the core issues affecting Mt Kenya.
Despite Gachagua’s escalating political activities and attempts to unite the region, resistance remains. Leaders allied with President Ruto have voiced their defiance against what they see as Gachagua’s heavy-handed approach. This resistance highlights the deep divisions and competing interests within Mt Kenya’s political landscape.
As the December deadline looms, the battle for Mt Kenya’s political summit continues. The clash between Ichung’wah and Gachagua encapsulates the broader struggle for influence and control within the region, reflecting the intricate and often tumultuous nature of Kenyan politics.
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