Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has once again stormed Kirinyaga County, defying threats from protesters who had warned him not to return after his recent political attacks against Governors Anne Waiguru and Cecily Mbarire.
Gachagua, accompanied by several opposition allies, made a triumphant entry into the county on Monday, declaring Kirinyaga his “political bedroom” and vowing to consolidate his influence in the Mount Kenya region ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The move sparked a wave of reactions, with Interior Cabinet Secretary Professor Kithure Kindiki issuing a strong rebuke against Gachagua’s continued verbal attacks on female leaders.
Kindiki called for respect toward Waiguru and Mbarire, whom he described as “distinguished and accomplished leaders” who have served the country with integrity and excellence.
Governors Anne Waiguru and Cecily Mbarire have done our country proud as exemplary and successful political leaders,” Kindiki stated. “The two have variously held senior positions in public administration and politics, outpacing the naive, arrogant novices trying to bully them into submission.
In what appeared to be a direct jab at Gachagua’s political style, Kindiki warned that arrogance and divisive politics would not stand the test of time. “This primitive, prideful, and know-it-all political bigotry and misadventure will collapse on its head—it is a matter of time,” he said.
Kindiki further emphasized the need for civility and unity in Kenyan politics, insisting that democracy should be built on mutual respect, persuasion, and policy-based debates rather than personal attacks and ethnic rhetoric.
“In 21st-century Kenya, democracy has to be about persuasion, respect for one another, and canvassing policy alternatives,” he remarked. “It cannot be about useless, dangerous ethnic chauvinism that recklessly pits sections of our country against others. Respect the people and their leaders.”
The political rivalry between Gachagua and top Mount Kenya leaders continues to intensify, signaling a heated battle for regional dominance as the 2027 polls draw closer. Whether Gachagua’s defiance will solidify his base or isolate him further within the political establishment remains to be seen.
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