Not Gachagua? Questions As New Mt Kenya Kingpin is Finally Declared Amid Speculations

A group of United Democratic Alliance (UDA) youth leaders has strongly criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of pretending to be the political kingpin of the Mt Kenya region.

The youths said the recent Mbeere North by-election revealed the true political leader the region supports ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking on Saturday, December 6, the youth leaders said Gachagua had been “posturing and masquerading” as the Mt Kenya spokesperson without approval from the people. They insisted that the region had clearly shown its preferred leader through the ballot.

According to Peterson Merichi, chairman of the UDA youth league, the Mbeere North mini-poll acted as a major test of political influence.

He said the victory of Leonard Wa Muthende, who was supported by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, was a direct message to those competing for the Mt Kenya crown.

“This was not just a by-election. It was a referendum on who Mt Kenya trusts to guide its future. The people spoke loudly, and they chose Prof. Kithure Kindiki,” Merichi said.

He noted that voters rejected Newton Karish, Gachagua’s preferred candidate, showing that Kindiki enjoys more trust among residents.

The youth leaders praised Kindiki for showing unity and maturity during the intense campaigns. 

They said he focused on issues, avoided personal attacks, and led the team in a professional way. They described him as a “stabiliser” and a leader who can bring Mt Kenya together.

Merichi also warned that anyone claiming to be the region’s kingpin without public support was misleading the community. 

He urged Gachagua to stop presenting himself as Mt Kenya’s political supremo, saying the people had made their choice clear.

In a related development, Deputy President Kindiki celebrated UDA’s victory in the by-election by hosting 60 MPs from Embu, Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Murang’a, Nyeri, Kiambu, Kirinyaga, Laikipia, Nakuru, and other counties at his Karen residence. He thanked them for their teamwork, commitment, and discipline during the campaign period.

Kindiki, who personally led campaign efforts in Mbeere North, said the team remained focused despite attempts by opponents to drag them into insults and confrontations.

With UDA youths openly supporting Kindiki, the battle for Mt Kenya leadership has taken a new turn.