NAIROBI, Kenya — Political tensions are rising within the populous Mt Kenya region, with UDA grassroots voices and allied leaders staking divergent claims over who commands the influential vote bloc as the 2027 general election looms.
Robert Alai, the Member OF County Assembly for Kileleshwa, has publicly asserted that the vote-rich Mt Kenya region is currently backing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, dismissing claims by some leaders who suggest it is Kithure Kindiki.
Alai’s remarks come amid ongoing debate over regional influence and succession within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party and broader political landscape.
Mt Kenya, home to millions of voters, played a decisive role in President William Ruto’s 2022 election, delivering a large portion of support to the UDA ticket.
Analysts say its influence will be crucial again in 2027, heightening contestation among political heavyweights.
Mt Kenya is with Gachagua. You can’t give Ruto conditions on any seat.
Factional Battle for Regional Influence
In recent months, a faction within the UDA leadership publicly backed Deputy President Kindiki as the region’s principal political voice, telling Gachagua to “stop masquerading” as Mt Kenya’s kingpin.
Those leaders argue that Kindiki’s role as sitting Deputy President gives him seniority and influence over regional political direction.
Kindiki however carries the tag of betrayal since he replaced Gachagua following a politically motivated impeachment.
Other prominent Mt Kenya figures, including several MPs and leaders, have warned that rival political parties, such as the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), should not eye the deputy president slot in any ongoing coalition negotiations with UDA, insisting the position remains non-negotiable and tied to the region’s leadership interests.
Implications for 2027 Political Landscape
Political commentators suggest the public jockeying reflects broader fractures within Kenya’s ruling coalition and attempts by individual leaders to solidify their base ahead of 2027.
MCA Alai argues that the UDA leaders from Mt Kenya region cannot dictate to Ruto on who to pick since they have no control of the votes.
Gachagua’s DCP Party has a huge following in Mt Kenya region.
