Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is rallying key political figures from Mount Kenya to challenge MPs who supported his impeachment last November.
Gachagua has launched an aggressive campaign across the region, urging residents to vote out the lawmakers who backed his removal, labeling their actions as betrayal. This has caused resistance in some constituencies, where MPs who supported the impeachment are facing backlash from their constituents. Some leaders are reportedly avoiding public engagements, appearing only in controlled settings.
Gachagua is collaborating with political opponents of these MPs, further weakening their chances of retaining their seats in the 2027 elections. In Murang’a, he has endorsed former NCIC commissioner Wambui Nyutu to replace Woman Representative Betty Maina, who was among the MPs who campaigned for his impeachment. In Mathira, Gachagua is supporting efforts to replace MP Eric Wamumbi, who is married to Betty.
In Kiambu, Gachagua has aligned himself with former Thika Town MP Wainaina Jungle, though it is unclear what their political collaboration entails. In Murang’a, Senator Joe Nyutu, Gachagua’s ally, is reportedly eyeing the gubernatorial seat. Gachagua is also backing Ngunjiri Wambugu to challenge Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge in the upcoming election.
In Othaya, he is working with Patrick Ngunjiri, while Nyandarua Woman Rep Faith Gitau is facing a challenge from Ngima Wamae. In Laikipia, Gachagua is reportedly backing Purity Kendi to contest against Jane Kagiri, and in Kiambu, Ann Wamuratha could face off with Mercy Nungari.
Gachagua has been meeting with former Limuru MP Peter Mwathi, ex-Kiambu MP Jude Njomo, and other regional figures, formulating a strategy to challenge the sitting MPs. He remains confident about his political plans, vowing to defeat those who played a part in his impeachment.
Nyandarua Woman MP Faith Gitau, however, disagrees with Gachagua’s influence, asserting that he no longer holds relevance in the region. She emphasized that the region is fully behind President William Ruto and his deputy, Kithure Kindiki.
Political analysts believe this ongoing power struggle could reshape Mount Kenya’s political landscape as the 2027 elections approach, with Gachagua’s actions signaling deeper tensions within the region’s politics.
