A faction of local leaders has publicly endorsed Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as the region’s political kingpin. This endorsement, which came during a recent burial ceremony in Nyeri County, marks a notable shift in the regional political landscape.
The ceremony, held on Wednesday, saw prominent figures from both current and former political offices express their unwavering support for Gachagua. Nyeri Town MP Duncan Maina Mathenge, who spoke during the event, emphasized his respect for Gachagua’s leadership and reforms, particularly highlighting the Deputy President’s efforts in the coffee sector. Mathenge declared, “The Deputy President knows how much I respect him and support his push for reforms in the coffee sector, amongst others. I declare here today that the senior most politician in Mt. Kenya region is none other than Rigathi Gachagua.”
The endorsement was further reinforced by Kieni MP Njoroge Wainaina, who conveyed his hope for Gachagua’s ascendancy as the region’s kingpin. “I support Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to take over the mantle as the Mt. Kenya kingpin. I still hope it happens. Your Excellency, we are your good foot soldiers. We will continue to support you,” Wainaina affirmed.
Nyeri County Woman Representative Rahab Mukami also lent her support, affirming the Deputy President’s role as a unifying force for the region. Mukami expressed, “Your Excellency, you are our leader, and we love and honour you. I can assure you that we are standing firm with you. We are urging you to continue uniting us as the Mountain leaders.”
The support for Gachagua was not limited to current politicians. Former Nyandarua Governor Francis Kimemia, who was present at the ceremony, urged Gachagua to continue his efforts in rallying regional support to ensure a unified voice from Mount Kenya. Kimemia said, “I’d like to urge all of us to pray for the country and its leadership for unity. Your Excellency continue uniting the Mt. Kenya region. You are the senior most politician, and we recognize you as such.”
In his response, Deputy President Gachagua acknowledged the support and emphasized the importance of unity within the region. “Our Nyeri leaders, please maintain peace and harmony amongst yourselves. I encourage our community to continue supporting one another,” he urged. Gachagua’s call for peace and collaboration among the region’s leaders highlights his commitment to fostering a cohesive political environment.
The ceremony was well-attended, with notable figures including Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, his Deputy David Kinaniri, Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga, and other regional leaders. The presence of these figures underscores the collective backing Gachagua has within the Mount Kenya political sphere.
This endorsement of Gachagua as the region’s kingpin signifies a crucial moment in the political dynamics of Mount Kenya. It reflects a concerted effort among local leaders to consolidate political influence and ensure that the region’s voice remains prominent on the national stage. As Gachagua continues to navigate his role as Deputy President, the support from these influential leaders may play a pivotal role in shaping the political future of Mount Kenya and beyond.
