EMBU, Kenya — Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and DCP boss Rigathi Gachagua on Wednesday took their rivalry to Mbeere as both leaders pitched camp to campaign for their preferred candidates ahead of the November 27 by-election.
The two leaders, who held separate rallies just kilometres apart, engaged in a public contest for Mt Kenya political dominance — a battle that has been simmering for months.
Kindiki dismissed Gachagua’s claim to the region’s political crown, insisting that seniority and contribution to national leadership, not self-declaration, determine who leads the Mt Kenya bloc.
“Gachagua cannot be the Mt Kenya kingpin. I am the most senior politician from the region,” Kindiki told residents, signalling a direct challenge to the Deputy President’s influence.
Gachagua, who also addressed supporters in Mbeere North, sought to solidify his grassroots backing, portraying himself as the region’s legitimate defender and accusing unnamed leaders of trying to destabilize Mt Kenya unity.
The parallel visits heightened tension as both leaders rallied voters ahead of the crucial by-election, turning Mbeere into the latest battleground for UDA’s internal power struggle.
The showdown comes amid ongoing shifts within President William Ruto’s administration, where alliances in Mt Kenya continue to evolve ahead of the 2027 race.
Residents said the duel brought national politics to their doorstep, with each camp using the opportunity to flex political muscle in a region seen as pivotal to shaping national political outcomes.
