Defecting? Speculation Grows as Gachagua Ally, George Koimburi, Is Spotted with Ruto Camp After Skipping DCP Event

Juja Member of Parliament George Koimburi has ignited fresh political debate in Mt Kenya after his recent movements raised questions about where his loyalties now lie.

Once a loud and visible supporter of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Koimburi’s silence and absence from key opposition events have left many wondering whether he is slowly drifting toward President William Ruto’s camp.

For much of 2024 and early 2025, Koimburi was a regular face at meetings and rallies organised by Gachagua’s Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP). He was viewed as one of the party’s strongest mobilisers in Kiambu County.

That changed abruptly after his controversial disappearance in May 2025, an incident that later turned into a self-abduction case. Since then, the MP has largely stayed away from active frontline politics.

The speculation intensified on Monday, January 12, after Koimburi was spotted in Murang’a County in the company of Betty Maina and her husband, Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi. Both leaders are widely known as strong allies of President Ruto and play a key role in mobilising support for the government in the Mt Kenya region.

Photos showing Koimburi relaxed and smiling alongside the two leaders quickly spread across social media platforms. Political observers interpreted the meeting as more than a casual encounter, suggesting it could be a sign of quiet engagement with leaders aligned to the Kenya Kwanza administration.

Adding to the intrigue was Koimburi’s noticeable absence a day earlier during a high-profile church service in Gatundu South attended by Rigathi Gachagua. The former deputy president was instead accompanied by Aloise Kinyanjui, a long-time political rival of Koimburi. Kinyanjui later addressed a large gathering in Juja, a move that many saw as symbolic.

Analysts say the developments point to a possible shift in influence within Gachagua’s camp, especially in Juja and surrounding areas. Koimburi’s absence from such a key event was viewed as unusual, given his past closeness to the former deputy president.

Speaking during a radio interview on Kameme FM, Gachagua appeared to indirectly acknowledge the uncertainty within his political circle. Without mentioning names, he hinted that shifting political loyalties are common in Mt Kenya politics and admitted that not all allies can be relied upon permanently.

So far, Koimburi has not publicly addressed the reports or clarified his political position. His silence has only fueled more speculation, with supporters and critics closely watching his next move.