Ruto Allies Clash with Gachagua in Mt. Kenya Region
May 10, 2025 — Mt. Kenya, Kenya
A political storm is brewing in the Mt. Kenya region as key allies of President William Ruto have launched a blistering attack on Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, signaling deepening rifts within the ruling coalition. The criticism comes amid Gachagua’s ongoing mobilization efforts ahead of the expected launch of a new political party, a move that has sparked tension among Kenya Kwanza leaders.
Several UDA-affiliated lawmakers and Cabinet officials from the Mt. Kenya region have in recent days taken to public forums to accuse Gachagua of undermining President Ruto’s leadership and pursuing a divisive ethnic agenda. They argue that the Deputy President is using the guise of regional unity to build a personal political vehicle aimed at challenging the UDA party’s dominance.
“Mt. Kenya is not for sale to individuals seeking to split the region for their own ambitions,” said Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro during a rally in Murang’a. “The President has a clear development agenda for Kenya, and we will not allow anyone, even within our ranks, to sabotage that through tribal politics.”
Gachagua, who has recently intensified grassroots engagements across Mt. Kenya counties, maintains that his efforts are aimed at ensuring the region remains politically united and influential. However, his critics interpret the tours as a campaign to establish himself as the de facto political kingpin of the region — potentially at the expense of the UDA party’s cohesion.
“We are seeing the emergence of a political cult of personality,” said Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, another Ruto ally. “The people of Mt. Kenya want development, not constant politicking.”
While Gachagua has not officially announced his departure from UDA, speculation is rife that he will soon unveil a new political outfit, drawing comparisons to previous splinter movements that have fractured political unity in central Kenya. His supporters argue that the region deserves a party that can negotiate better deals within the Kenya Kwanza coalition.
Despite the growing friction, State House has remained silent on the matter, fueling speculation about the President’s stance. Analysts warn that if not managed carefully, the escalating tensions could threaten Ruto’s 2027 re-election strategy, especially if the Mt. Kenya voting bloc becomes fragmented.
As the political chessboard shifts, Mt. Kenya finds itself at the center of a high-stakes power struggle — one that could redefine alliances ahead of the next general election.