MERU, Kenya – Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged leaders from the Mt Kenya region to come together for the community’s collective good, emphasizing the importance of unity over internal strife.
Speaking at a gathering in Mikumbune on Sunday, Gachagua expressed his dismay at what he perceives as a unique problem within the Mt Kenya community—leaders being paid to criticize their own.
He contrasted this with other major Kenyan communities, noting that leaders like Raila Odinga, William Ruto, and Kalonzo Musyoka receive steadfast support from their people.
“I told our leaders, please be like other communities. I have never heard people of Luo insulting Raila, not a single one. I haven’t heard even one Kalenjin insulting William Ruto, and I haven’t heard even one Kamba insulting Kalonzo,” Gachagua remarked.
The Deputy President called for the Mt Kenya region to ignore these divisive elements, arguing that unity is their greatest strength.
He stressed that allowing a handful of individuals to sow discord undermines the region’s potential and influence.
“In a population of 13 million, they are less than 10—just ignore them. The people are good. Going forward, I want to assure you that as long as we are united as a region, we are in a good space. Don’t allow anybody to divide you along county lines. Our strength is in our unity,” he stated.
Gachagua also warned against attempts to split Mt Kenya into different factions, suggesting that those pushing for such divisions are being manipulated for ulterior motives.
He called on the community to engage with like-minded Kenyans who value honesty and collaboration.
This rallying cry for unity comes as Gachagua seeks to solidify his role as the de facto leader of the Mt Kenya region.
Despite his high-ranking position as Deputy President, his leadership ambitions have faced resistance from some quarters within the region.
Critics have publicly dismissed his claims of representing Mt Kenya, challenging his efforts to consolidate support.
The Deputy President’s calls for unity are seen as part of a broader strategy to assert his influence and secure his political standing in Mt Kenya ahead of the 2027 general elections.
A few weeks ago, Gachagua issued a stern warning to political dissidents, giving them until December to align with his leadership or face rejection by the electorate.
Speaking at a gathering in Mikumbune on Sunday, Gachagua expressed his dismay at what he perceives as a unique problem within the Mt Kenya community—leaders being paid to criticize their own.
He contrasted this with other major Kenyan communities, noting that leaders like Raila Odinga, William Ruto, and Kalonzo Musyoka receive steadfast support from their people.
“I told our leaders, please be like other communities. I have never heard people of Luo insulting Raila, not a single one. I haven’t heard even one Kalenjin insulting William Ruto, and I haven’t heard even one Kamba insulting Kalonzo,” Gachagua remarked.
The Deputy President called for the Mt Kenya region to ignore these divisive elements, arguing that unity is their greatest strength.
He stressed that allowing a handful of individuals to sow discord undermines the region’s potential and influence.
“In a population of 13 million, they are less than 10—just ignore them. The people are good. Going forward, I want to assure you that as long as we are united as a region, we are in a good space. Don’t allow anybody to divide you along county lines. Our strength is in our unity,” he stated.
Gachagua also warned against attempts to split Mt Kenya into different factions, suggesting that those pushing for such divisions are being manipulated for ulterior motives.
He called on the community to engage with like-minded Kenyans who value honesty and collaboration.
This rallying cry for unity comes as Gachagua seeks to solidify his role as the de facto leader of the Mt Kenya region.
Despite his high-ranking position as Deputy President, his leadership ambitions have faced resistance from some quarters within the region.
Critics have publicly dismissed his claims of representing Mt Kenya, challenging his efforts to consolidate support.
The Deputy President’s calls for unity are seen as part of a broader strategy to assert his influence and secure his political standing in Mt Kenya ahead of the 2027 general elections.
A few weeks ago, Gachagua issued a stern warning to political dissidents, giving them until December to align with his leadership or face rejection by the electorate.
