Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has intensified his campaign efforts across the Mount Kenya region, urging residents to vote against Members of Parliament who supported his impeachment.
His aggressive campaign has sparked tensions within the region’s political landscape as he seeks to replace several MPs with his preferred candidates.
In Murang’a County, Gachagua has thrown his support behind former NCIC commissioner Wambui Nyutu, endorsing her to challenge and replace Woman Representative Betty Maina.
Meanwhile, in Mathira constituency, he is actively backing a candidate to unseat the current MP, Eric Wamumbi, who happens to be Betty Maina’s husband.
Kiambu County has also seen Gachagua’s influence, where he is campaigning for former Thika Town MP Wainaina Jungle to make a political comeback.
Similarly, in Nyeri Town, Gachagua has endorsed former MP Ngunjiri Wambugu, rallying support to challenge the sitting MP, Duncan Mathenge.
In Othaya, he is supporting Patrick Ngunjiri, popularly known as Wakili wa Mashinani, to compete against the current MP, Wambugu Wainaina.
In Nyandarua County, Woman Representative Faith Gitau faces a challenge from Ngima Wamae, who has received Gachagua’s endorsement.
Peter Wambugu, also known as Pemwa, has been positioned to challenge Ronald Karauri for the Kasarani constituency seat.
Additionally, Gachagua is reportedly backing Purity Kendi to face off with Jane Kagiri in Laikipia County.
In Kiambu, Woman Representative Ann Wamuratha could be up against Mercy Nungari, with Gachagua’s support behind the latter.
However, Gachagua’s aggressive campaign has drawn criticism from political figures, including President William Ruto’s Senior Economic Advisor, Moses Kuria.
During a recent interview, Kuria criticized Gachagua for contradicting the promises made by the Kenya Kwanza government during the election campaign.
Kuria expressed disappointment, stating: “People have often unfairly claimed that the Kikuyu and Mt. Kenya communities cannot vote for a leader from another tribe.
However, in the 2022 elections, we proved them wrong, which boosted our community’s reputation. I was proud to be a Kikuyu during that moment.”
He added, “Now, just two years later, despite any provocation, we are risking that reputation again.
Some people have pointed out that even former President Uhuru Kenyatta, despite disagreements, showed patience, which added to our community’s dignity.
However, Gachagua’s impatience and actions now erode our community’s reputation.
I feel ashamed and embarrassed to be linked with someone who suggests they cannot wait for the full five-year term.
That decision damages the trust we worked hard to rebuild. I will never forgive Gachagua for causing such a setback.
We had just restored our community’s image, and now, after only two years, it feels like we are abandoning the very principles we committed to together.”
Gachagua’s ongoing campaign is expected to continue stirring debate as the Mount Kenya region approaches the next election cycle.
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