Deputy President Kithure Kindiki held a strategic meeting with elected leaders from Mt Kenya East on Monday to consolidate support amid growing political rifts in the larger Mt Kenya region. The meeting, held at the Deputy President’s official residence, brought together leaders from Meru, Embu, and Tharaka Nithi counties as part of Kindiki’s broader plan to counter the growing influence of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
The Mt Kenya region, traditionally a key voting bloc, has recently shown signs of a split that could significantly impact the 2027 presidential elections. The division stems from last year’s political fallout, which saw Gachagua impeached from his role as the country’s second in command. Gachagua, now a vocal critic of his ousters, has been hosting meetings at his Wamunyoro residence in Mathira, Nyeri County, establishing it as his operational hub for 2027.
Kindiki’s meeting comes after months of tension, during which leaders from Mt Kenya East had expressed support for him as their primary link to the national government. This alliance, forged when Kindiki served as Interior Cabinet Secretary, played a pivotal role in his eventual ascension to Deputy President.
Leaders at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to Kindiki, stating that his leadership would ensure the region’s priorities are effectively represented. “Through his leadership, we are confident that the region’s development goals will be realized,” said a representative of the leaders.
The cracks within Mt Kenya have also left some MPs who supported Gachagua’s ouster in a precarious position, with many avoiding public appearances in their constituencies due to fear of voter backlash.
The Mt Kenya East meeting coincided with President William Ruto’s engagement with former Meru Governor Kiraitu Murungi at State House. Murungi, a former Azimio ally, had recently criticized the government over perceived marginalization in state appointments. His meeting with Ruto underscores the President’s intensified efforts to unify Mt Kenya East and consolidate his influence in the region ahead of the next election cycle.
