A new political storm is brewing as some Members of Parliament (MPs) allied to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and the Azimio coalition take issue with President William Ruto over government appointments.
The lawmakers have accused Ruto of sidelining certain regions, particularly the Gusii community, when making state appointments.
West Mugirango MP Stephen Mogaka and Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji have openly criticized the president, claiming that despite their region supporting the government, they have been left out when it comes to key positions.
Speaking at a funeral service at Kebirigo Central SDA Church in West Mugirango on Friday, February 7, the two leaders expressed their disappointment, saying Ruto had promised an inclusive government but had failed to deliver.
“This is the time to consider appointing people from the Gusii community. We are pleading—let’s support each other so that Kenya can move forward. Kisiis are also Kenyans, and our contribution is visible,” Mogaka said.
The MPs also hinted at backing a potential presidential bid by former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i, arguing that the community should rally behind strong leaders to secure a place in national leadership.
“We need to start planning for the future. We can have someone like Matiang’i, alongside Mogaka, rising to the top and pushing our agenda forward,” said Manyatta MP Mukunji.
Speculation has been growing that Matiang’i might contest the presidency in the 2027 elections, with some Jubilee Party leaders already voicing their support for him.
The complaints from Gusii leaders also extend beyond appointments. Some have accused Ruto’s administration of allegedly withdrawing funding for crucial projects in the region, particularly infrastructure.
A major concern has been the stalled airport project, which was set to begin in 2022 but has since been put on hold.
Meanwhile, leaders allied to Raila Odinga have been reaping big in the broad-based government, securing key Cabinet and government board positions.
Some of the beneficiaries include John Mbadi (Treasury), Opiyo Wandayi (Energy and Petroleum), Hassan Joho (Mining), Beatrice Askul (East African Community), and Wycliffe Oparanya, who now heads the Ministry of Cooperatives and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development.
In addition, President Ruto has been actively visiting the Nyanza region, launching several development projects, signaling his commitment to strengthening ties with Raila’s political stronghold.
The growing discontent among Gusii leaders raises concerns over regional representation in government, with calls for inclusivity becoming louder.
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