Kigumo MP Joseph Munyoro has come to the defence of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, asserting that he remains the rightful leader of the Mt Kenya region.
This statement came shortly after 48 United Democratic Alliance (UDA) MPs from Mt Kenya and Nairobi shifted their allegiance to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, endorsing him as the region’s new kingpin.
Munyoro, in a firm response, labelled the recent move as divisive, stating, “Unless and until the Deputy President formally informs us of his inability to advocate for the rights of our region, we shall continue to stand by him as our highest representative in this administration.”
He stressed the importance of unity in Mt Kenya, expressing concern over leaders pushing conflicting agendas.
The MP also emphasized that the government led by President William Ruto is firmly supported by Gachagua, dismissing any narrative that suggests otherwise. He condemned attempts by some leaders to prematurely engage in political battles, which, according to him, threaten service delivery to Kenyans.
This political realignment is seen as a fresh blow to Gachagua’s quest to consolidate support in the region, with the 48 MPs stating that Mt Kenya risks missing out on development under his leadership. They view Kindiki as better suited to connect the region with national development agendas.
Munyoro, however, cautioned against weakening the region’s leadership, adding that internal political turmoil would only hinder Mt Kenya’s prosperity.
All the same, it remains to be seen how Deputy President Hon Rigathi Gachagua will navigate the current political turbulence that risks sending him to political oblivion even before the upcoming 2027 general election.