With the 2027 General Election on the horizon, Mt Kenya's political landscape is witnessing the rise of a third influential centre of power linked to President William Ruto.
Following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in October 2024, he launched a vigorous campaign opposing President Ruto, accusing him of betrayal. Gachagua’s Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) has made significant inroads in Mt Kenya, notably winning the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election where DCP’s Kamau Ngotho defeated the UDA candidate by over 30,000 votes. This victory is viewed as a protest vote against Ruto and has emboldened Gachagua to mobilize the region against the president’s re-election bid.
Gachagua has since transformed his home in Wamunyoro village into a political retreat, hosting delegations from Mt Kenya and beyond, making it a key decision-making centre.
Meanwhile, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, hailing from Mt Kenya East, has also established a power base at his Irunduni residence, aiming to consolidate regional support and counter Gachagua’s influence.
Adding complexity, Ndia MP George Kariuki, an ally of President Ruto, has initiated 90-day consultative forums at his Gacharu home in Kirinyaga County. He plans to issue a 'Gacharu Declaration' outlining Mt Kenya’s future direction. Political analysts suggest Kariuki is being groomed as a significant regional leader and possibly a running mate contender for Ruto in 2027, although Kariuki has not confirmed any ambitions yet.
The Mt Kenya region remains politically divided, with Mt Kenya East counties, led by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, pushing for greater autonomy from the western counties. Ruku and Kariuki have expressed intentions to mobilize over three million votes in support of President Ruto, emphasizing unity behind Kindiki as a future national leader.
President Ruto has repeatedly affirmed his commitment to Mt Kenya voters, acknowledging their role in his rise to power and signaling ongoing engagement with the region.
However, political experts warn that efforts to split the Mt Kenya vote face significant challenges. Governance expert Prof Gitile Naituli notes that Gachagua has become a dominant figure in the region, perceived as a protector against perceived injustices from the current administration. The region’s strong social and economic integration further complicates attempts to divide its political influence.
As the 2027 elections approach, the emergence of these three power centres in Mt Kenya highlights the region’s critical role in shaping Kenya’s political future.
