In a significant political development, Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s influence appears to be growing following President William Ruto’s recent visit to the Mt. Kenya region.
Despite Gachagua’s removal from the government, his loyalists remain in key positions, complicating Ruto’s political landscape as he seeks to regain support from the region.
Key Takeaways
- Gachagua’s allies in government are under threat of dismissal, but Ruto hesitates to act.
- The upcoming presidential visit to Mt Kenya is seen as a crucial test for Ruto’s leadership.
- Gachagua is leading an anti-Ruto campaign in the region, complicating Ruto’s efforts to unify his support base.
Gachagua’s Continued Influence
Despite being ousted from the Kenya Kwanza government, Gachagua’s presence is still felt in the corridors of power. His allies, particularly those in senior government roles, have been on edge, fearing dismissal.
However, Ruto’s reluctance to act against them stems from the potential backlash in Mt Kenya, a region that significantly contributed to his electoral victory in 2022.
- Key Figures: Justin Bedan Muturi, the Public Service Cabinet Secretary, has openly challenged Ruto, indicating a divide within the government.
- Political Strategy: Ruto’s advisors believe that dismissing Gachagua’s loyalists could alienate voters in Mt Kenya, where Gachagua’s influence remains strong.
Ruto’s Upcoming Visit to Mt Kenya
Ruto’s planned six-day visit to Mt Kenya at the end of March is seen as a critical moment for his administration.
The region, once a stronghold for Ruto, has shifted towards opposition, with Gachagua leading the charge against him.
- Public Sentiment: The region has expressed dissatisfaction with Ruto’s leadership, evidenced by public protests and negative receptions at events.
- Preparations: Local leaders are mobilizing support for Ruto’s visit, emphasizing the need for development projects to address constituents’ concerns.
The Political Landscape in Mt Kenya
The political dynamics in Mt Kenya are shifting, with Gachagua positioning himself as a key player against Ruto. His strategy involves rallying support by emphasizing regional unity and addressing local grievances.
- Opposition to Ruto: Gachagua’s anti-Ruto campaign is gaining traction, with many in the region feeling neglected by the current administration.
- Ruto’s Challenges: As Ruto attempts to mend fences, he faces the challenge of balancing his new alliance with Raila Odinga while addressing the discontent in Mt Kenya.
Conclusion
As President Ruto prepares for his visit to Mt Kenya, the political landscape remains fraught with tension. Gachagua’s influence continues to pose a challenge to Ruto’s authority, and the upcoming visit will be a crucial test of Ruto’s ability to reconnect with a region that once overwhelmingly supported him.
The outcome of this visit could significantly impact the political future of both leaders as they navigate the complexities of Kenyan politics.
