Political tensions in the Mount Kenya region escalated this week after Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi was heckled during a burial ceremony in Kirinyaga County. The incident, which occurred at Muragara Primary School, highlights growing discontent among locals towards leaders perceived as opposing Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
In a video shared online, Wamumbi openly criticized Gachagua’s political ambitions, declaring, “Sisi kama watu wa Mathira hatuungi Rigathi Gachagua mkono” (As Mathira residents, we don’t support Gachagua). His remarks sparked immediate outrage, with mourners booing and a clergyman attempting to seize the microphone. Despite resistance, the MP was forced to cut his speech short as tensions flared between his security and agitated attendees.
This incident follows similar confrontations involving other allies of President William Ruto in the region. Recently, Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah and Kiambu Woman Representative Ann Wamuratha faced hostility during public events, with crowds rejecting their attempts to promote the government’s agenda. In one instance, Ichung’wah was met with relentless heckling as he tried to address residents, forcing him to abandon his speech.
The backlash signals deepening divisions within the Mount Kenya political landscape, with Gachagua’s supporters clashing with Ruto-aligned leaders. Analysts suggest the unrest reflects broader frustrations over unmet expectations and internal rivalries within the ruling coalition.
As the government struggles to maintain unity in its stronghold, these incidents raise questions about the region’s political future. Will Ruto’s allies recalibrate their approach, or will the rift widen further? For now, the growing resistance at public gatherings suggests a turbulent road ahead for Kenya’s leadership.
