Fresh details reveal that President William Ruto is on a mission to contain his former Deputy President, Rigathi Gachagua, in the Mount Kenya region.
According to a report by the Nation, the Head of State is using Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, parastatal chairmen, and other technocrats to blunt the influence of Mr Gachagua, who continues to command a loyal following despite his impeachment last year.
The Kenya Kwanza administration has formed a caucus of senior officials led by Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni under the Jamii Imara Mashinani programme.
While officially billed as citizen engagement forums, the initiative has been viewed as a political mobilisation tool aimed at weakening Mr Gachagua’s support.
DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua speaks during a political rally. Photo: Rigathi Gachagua Source: Facebook
Cabinet Secretaries William Kabogo (ICT), Alice Wahome (Lands), Mutahi Kagwe (Agriculture), Mary Miano (Tourism), Erick Muriithi (Water), and Geoffrey Ruku (Public Service) comprise the bloc.
They are supported by top civil servants, including Amos Gathecha, Deputy Head of Public Service, and several Principal Secretaries from the Mount Kenya region.
At forums held in Murang’a, Kirinyaga, and Embu, residents raised concerns over stalled projects, water shortages, and frustrations with the Social Health Authority.
Ms. Muthoni insisted that the programme’s goal is to collect feedback from citizens, but acknowledged that its slogan, ‘Tukutane, Tujadiliane na Tushirikiane,’ carries political undertones.
President William Ruto gestures during a past meeting. Photo: William Ruto Source: Facebook
Mr. Gachagua has recently intensified his campaign through the Democracy for the Citizens Party, openly declaring his 2027 presidential bid. His allies, including Nyandarua Senator John Methu and Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa, have vowed to lock out Kenya Kwanza in parts of the region.
The battle is further complicated by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who is revamping Jubilee Party ahead of the 2027 elections, setting up a three-way contest for the Mount Kenya vote.