Ruto Allies Step Up Efforts to Undermine Gachagua’s Influence in Mt Kenya

Allies of President William Ruto are intensifying efforts to weaken the political influence of his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua, in the Mt Kenya region ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The campaign is described by insiders as a coordinated strategy aimed at reshaping political loyalties in the vote-rich region. It combines legal, political and messaging approaches intended to reduce Mr Gachagua’s standing while strengthening support for President Ruto’s re-election.

Recent public remarks have reflected the growing divide between the two leaders. At a pre-burial service in Nyandarua County, President Ruto issued a veiled warning, saying, “I know many things… it is just a matter of time.” Mr Gachagua responded by rejecting attempts to sideline him, comparing his grassroots support to a deeply rooted Mugumo tree that cannot easily be removed.

The dispute has extended into wider political mobilisation. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has taken a leading role in challenging his predecessor’s influence. He has described upcoming by-elections as key tests of political strength and suggested that the current contest is linked not only to 2027 but also to future succession politics.

Behind the public exchanges is a broader strategy. Allies of the president are reportedly considering legal measures that could subject Mr Gachagua to sustained scrutiny, including defamation cases and possible investigations into alleged misconduct. 

At the same time, efforts are being made to divide his support base by encouraging rival leaders within Mt Kenya and limiting his access to financial and institutional resources. There are also attempts to influence public perception. Some of the president’s allies have portrayed Mr Gachagua as divisive and unreliable, particularly in his efforts to build support beyond the region. 

This approach appears intended to complicate any attempts to form national alliances, including a possible reconciliation with former president Uhuru Kenyatta.

Supporters of Mr Gachagua argue that such tactics may be counterproductive. 

Leaders such as Jayne Kihara say similar efforts failed during the 2022 election, when then-president Kenyatta opposed Dr Ruto’s campaign. They contend that attempts to direct Mt Kenya voters often strengthen local resistance.

Others within government defend the actions as justified. Mwangi Kiunjuri has said Mr Gachagua’s conduct should be examined, adding that no leader should be beyond legal scrutiny. The situation has been further complicated by allegations from Leo Wamuthende, who claims investigative agencies have evidence linking Mr Gachagua to serious offences, including alleged plots against the presidency. 

Critics, including George Natembeya, have rejected these claims, arguing that state institutions are being used for political purposes. Legal experts and opposition figures have also raised concerns, describing the investigations as unfocused attempts to find incriminating evidence. 

Within Mr Gachagua’s camp, there is confidence that the claims will not be substantiated and that the strategy misjudges the political dynamics of Mt Kenya.