Kenya Kwanza Leaders Rebuke Gachagua Over Claims of Leadership Void in Mount Kenya

 

By Phanice Rono 

 Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has drawn sharp criticism from Kenya Kwanza leaders following his recent remarks alleging a leadership vacuum in the Mount Kenya region.

Led by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, the lawmakers accused Gachagua of disrespecting elected officials and sowing discord within the region. Speaking during a fundraiser in Thika, Kiambu County, Ichung’wah and several MPs dismissed Gachagua’s assertions that Mount Kenya leaders were less educated and easily compromised, insisting that they were democratically chosen by the people.

“Mount Kenya has competent leaders who were elected by the people through a transparent process,” Ichung’wah said. “It is unfortunate for anyone — especially a senior leader — to belittle those serving the electorate.”

Thika Town MP Alice Ng’ang’a urged Gachagua to let go of personal grievances following his impeachment, advising him to focus on unity rather than division. “The bitterness will consume you,” she said. “These are your children — wish them well.”

Her sentiments were echoed by Kiambaa MP Njuguna Kawanjiku, who cautioned against personal attacks in politics. “You don’t become personal when it comes to politics,” he said.

Other leaders present at the event echoed similar views, emphasizing that political disagreements should not degenerate into insults or attempts to undermine fellow leaders. They called on the people of Mount Kenya to remain united and continue supporting the Kenya Kwanza administration’s development agenda.

The fundraiser, which brought together several lawmakers, clergy, and local leaders, aimed to raise funds for the development of 24 churches in the region.

Gachagua, known for his outspoken views on regional politics, recently claimed that many of Mount Kenya’s current representatives lack the capacity to defend the interests of their constituents, saying the region’s leadership had lost direction. His comments have sparked heated debate in political circles, with some interpreting them as a veiled attack on allies within the ruling coalition.

As tensions simmer within Kenya Kwanza, observers say the growing rift could signal deeper divisions ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly in the influential Mount Kenya voting bloc.