Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Sunday engaged in the evolving Mt. Kenya politics, which seem to have divided the vote-rich region into two factions—East and West. This development comes alongside the endorsement of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki as the new liaison between the region and the presidency.
Speaking to vernacular radio stations from the Mt. Kenya East region on Sunday evening, Gachagua drew parallels to the divisive politics of the Moi era, where efforts were made to fracture the unity of Central Kenya’s voting bloc. “This feels like the strategy Moi used to divide the mountain,” Gachagua told Muuga FM. “Back then, they started a campaign to divide Mt. Kenya, saying things like, ‘Kiambu has had the presidency twice, then Nyeri—now it’s Murang’a’s turn,’ and so on.”
He reflected on the 1992 elections when Central Kenya was divided between supporting presidential candidates Kenneth Matiba and Mwai Kibaki, a split that allowed Moi to retain power. “I was there during Moi’s time, so I know this trap very well,” he added. “If we fall for it again, we will be watching the government from the sidelines.”
Gachagua pointed out that this division ultimately contributed to Moi’s victory despite a significant opposition vote. “Nyeri backed Kibaki, supported by Laikipia, Kirinyaga, Embu, and Tharaka Nithi, while Murang’a rallied behind Matiba, supported by Kiambu and Nairobi. Kibaki got 1.1 million votes, Matiba got 1.4 million, and Moi won with 1.9 million. We had the numbers to win but ended up in opposition.”
He further argued that Central Kenya’s unity had been crucial to its political dominance, leading to four consecutive presidential terms under Mwai Kibaki and Uhuru Kenyatta. His remarks followed the endorsement by 69 legislators from Central Kenya of CS Kindiki as their link to the presidency. The legislators anticipate that this move will enhance the coordination of national government functions and address the developmental needs of the Mt. Kenya region and its diaspora.
Impeachment is imminent
Gachagua also addressed his impending impeachment, which is set for debate on Tuesday. He urged the MPs advocating for his removal to allow him to complete his five-year term, dismissing accusations of tribalism as unfounded.
The Deputy President questioned why these allegations were not raised during his campaign for President William Ruto, where he frequently spoke in his native language. “My removal is being driven by those who disagree with my stance on issues such as the controversial Tax Bill, demolitions, and my commitment to speaking the truth,” he stated.
Reports suggest that the impeachment motion is gaining momentum, with nearly 300 signatures collected by Friday evening. The motion requires support from at least 117 MPs to be introduced in the National Assembly and will need 233 votes to pass and move on to the Senate.
House leaders confirmed that the signature drive is progressing well. “As of Thursday evening, we had collected 260 signatures, and the number is approaching 300,” National Assembly Deputy Majority Leader Owen Baya told Citizen TV.
Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro added, “There’s a rush among members to sign the motion.” Key leaders backing the motion include National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah.
