Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly declared political unity with retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, signalling a major shift in Mt Kenya politics.
Speaking during a church service at AIPCA Kiamworia in Gatundu North, Kiambu County, Gachagua framed the move as necessary for regional cohesion.
Gatundu North holds symbolic political value as Uhuru’s home constituency and long-time power base within Mt Kenya.
Addressing congregants, Gachagua said he and the Jubilee Party leader shared a common understanding on the need for unity.
He told the faithful that sustained internal divisions had weakened Mt Kenya’s bargaining power in national politics. Gachagua revealed that he had maintained direct communication with Uhuru in recent months.
According to Gachagua, the retired president encouraged continued efforts toward restoring regional solidarity. He also conveyed greetings from Uhuru to the congregation, drawing applause from church members. Gachagua insisted that Uhuru deserved dignity, respect, and peace following his exit from elective politics.
Defending Uhuru Against Political Attacks
The Democracy for the Citizens Party leader strongly defended Uhuru against renewed political criticism. He accused leaders affiliated with the Orange Democratic Movement of orchestrating attacks against the former president.
Gachagua alleged that President William Ruto stood behind those attacks through proxy political figures. He told congregants that Uhuru had honoured the democratic transition after the 2022 elections.
According to Gachagua, Uhuru peacefully handed over power and refrained from destabilising the new administration. He said continued attacks against Uhuru amounted to disrespect for institutional leadership.
Gachagua declared he would not tolerate public insults directed at the retired president. The remarks drew loud cheers from congregants, reflecting lingering regional loyalty toward Uhuru.
A Shift From Past Hostility
Gachagua’s statements marked a notable departure from the bitter rivalry seen during the 2022 campaigns. During that period, Jubilee and Ruto’s camp openly clashed over succession politics.
Gachagua acknowledged past political differences between himself and Uhuru. He publicly apologised for confrontations that characterised the previous election cycle.
The declaration signalled a deliberate de-escalation between Jubilee and the DCP. Both parties have competed fiercely for influence across the Mt Kenya region.
Analysts view the move as an attempt to consolidate regional political capital. The strategy appears aimed at countering fragmentation ahead of the next general election.
Uhuru’s Role in the 2022 Election
Gachagua defended Uhuru’s decision to support Raila Odinga in the 2022 presidential race. He said Uhuru fulfilled his constitutional responsibility as president until the final day.
Gachagua noted that Uhuru campaigned for Raila despite resistance within Mt Kenya. According to electoral data, Raila secured significant votes from the region.
Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission records show Raila garnered 889,506 votes from Mt Kenya.
Gachagua argued that Uhuru’s actions demonstrated political maturity rather than betrayal. He insisted that leaders must respect diverse political choices within democratic systems.
Accusations Against President Ruto
Gachagua escalated his criticism by accusing President Ruto of destabilising ODM internally. He claimed Ruto encouraged succession battles to weaken the opposition party.
According to Gachagua, the strategy aimed to fracture ODM’s traditional strongholds. He alleged that Cabinet Secretaries Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya faced pressure to challenge ODM leadership.
Gachagua claimed such moves targeted ODM’s dominance in Coast and Western regions. He argued that Uhuru had no involvement in those alleged manoeuvres.
According to Gachagua, Uhuru was unfairly blamed for political schemes driven elsewhere.
Ruto’s Response and Political Counteroffensive
President Ruto has dismissed accusations against his leadership in recent public addresses. Speaking during a separate Mt Kenya tour, Ruto defended his administration’s development record.
He cited investments in agriculture, education, infrastructure, and electricity expansion. Ruto said his government focused on service delivery rather than political drama.
He challenged critics, including Gachagua, to face him during the 2027 elections. According to Ruto, leadership should be judged by performance rather than rhetoric.
He warned that insults and political theatrics would not sway voters. Ruto declared confidence in his administration’s achievements across the country.
Display of Strength in Mt Kenya
Ruto’s Mt Kenya appearances featured a strong lineup of senior leaders. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki accompanied him during public engagements.
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe and Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga were also present. Several Members of Parliament attended the events to demonstrate political unity.
The gatherings aimed to counter narratives suggesting declining support in the region. Ruto used the platform to reassure residents of continued government commitment.
Regional Leaders Weigh In
Other Mt Kenya leaders have echoed calls for internal unity. Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang’wa previously urged the region to stop internal battles.
He admitted that earlier divisions weakened collective political leverage. According to Thang’wa, the region suffered after leaders turned against Uhuru.
He said political miscalculations cost Mt Kenya influence at the national level. Several MPs have since supported reconciliation efforts between rival camps.
Gachagua’s Emerging Strategy
Political observers view Gachagua’s outreach as a calculated regional repositioning. He appears focused on rebuilding trust within Mt Kenya’s fractured leadership.
By aligning with Uhuru, Gachagua taps into residual goodwill among Jubilee loyalists. The move could strengthen bargaining power ahead of future coalitions.
Analysts note that Mt Kenya remains politically restless and strategically important. Unity may determine whether the region negotiates from strength or division.
Gachagua’s rhetoric suggests preparation for a broader national role. Whether the alliance evolves into formal cooperation remains uncertain.
A Region at a Crossroads
Mt Kenya politics continue to experience shifting alliances and recalibrations. The region’s leaders face pressure to balance loyalty, ambition, and collective interest.
Gachagua’s declaration marks a significant moment in that ongoing realignment. It reflects recognition that fragmentation weakens negotiating strength.
As 2027 approaches, unity narratives are likely to intensify. The evolving relationship between Uhuru and Gachagua could reshape regional politics.
What remains clear is that Mt Kenya’s political future remains highly contested. The coming months will reveal whether unity efforts translate into durable political structures.
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