Kithure Kindiki Declares Himself Mt Kenya Kingpin in Escalating Regional Power Battle

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has openly challenged former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua’s long-standing claim to Mt Kenya’s political leadership, marking a bold escalation in the region’s succession politics

Speaking during a campaign tour in Mbeere North on Wednesday, November 19, Kindiki dismissed Gachagua as a “political novice,” insisting that no one had mandated him to speak for the region

He questioned Gachagua’s self-appointment as Mt Kenya’s authority, noting that leadership must be anchored in legitimacy and current political standing

“For avoidance of doubt, when I am here, I am the seniormost political leader in Mt Kenya,” Kindiki declared, citing his position as the country’s deputy president. “I am in government, you are outside how then do you claim to be the region’s authority?”

His remarks were seen as a direct rebuttal to Gachagua, who has spent months presenting himself as the region’s defender and using his impeachment last year as a rallying point against President William Ruto. Gachagua has maintained that his removal from office was a betrayal of the Mt Kenya electorate

Battle for Influence Ahead of Mbeere North By-Election

Kindiki’s tough talk comes ahead of the November 27 Mbeere North parliamentary by-election, a contest analysts believe will act as a political litmus test for the two leaders

While Kindiki is campaigning for the UDA candidate, Gachagua has pitched camp in the constituency to back the United Opposition aspirant. Political analyst Mokaya Otieno argues that the outcome of the mini-poll could reshape Mt Kenya politics ahead of the 2027 General Election

According to Otieno, Kindiki’s position as deputy president gives him significant national leverage, making him a formidable contender to Gachagua’s influence. A victory for Gachagua’s preferred candidate would reinforce his grip on the region, while a UDA win would elevate Kindiki as Mt Kenya’s emerging political heavyweight

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Kindiki Accuses Gachagua of Intimidation and Division

During his address, Kindiki also criticized Gachagua for what he termed as “politics of hate and intimidation,” saying such conduct disqualifies him from uniting or guiding the region

This came after Gachagua vowed to block “outsiders” from influencing the Mbeere North vote

Kindiki urged residents to reject divisive politics and embrace leaders focused on national development rather than personal battles

As the by-election nears, the political showdown between the two leaders continues to intensify, with the results expected to signal Mt Kenya’s preferred future directand who will ultimately carry the region’s mantle into 2027

Writer : Mweru Mbugua