- He highlighted his success in fostering unity within the region, with only a small fraction remaining unaligned.
- Reiterating the importance of local politics, Gachagua pointed out that every leader has a local base.
Image: DPCS
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced that the Mount Kenya region is prepared to collaborate with other communities ahead of the 2027 general election.
"Every community in the country should unite, the Mount Kenya unity is our strength. In 2027, we will reach out to other communities to bargain but what I can assure you is that the region will always be in the government," the DP said.
Speaking in Ruiru during the consecration of Bishop Ben Kamau of JCM on Friday, Gachagua emphasized the importance of unity among leaders for national healing.
"President Ruto should unite his community, just as Kalonzo Musyoka, Raila Odinga, and other leaders are doing. There is nothing wrong with the Mount Kenya region uniting too," Gachagua said.
He highlighted his success in fostering unity within the region, with only a small fraction remaining unaligned.
"A few people have an issue with this unity, but unity is a positive force," he added.
Reiterating the importance of local politics, Gachagua pointed out that every leader has a local base.
"Recently, Muthama called for unity in the eastern region without backlash. Similarly, Wetangula united the Luhya community without criticism," he noted.
Gachagua argued that regional unity enhances bargaining power in elections.
He acknowledged Mount Kenya's support for the Kenya Kwanza government and expressed his commitment to leading the community effectively.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka praised Rigathi Gachagua for his brave efforts in advocating for the people of Mount Kenya.
He asserted that any attempt to impeach Gachagua would be firmly opposed by the Azimio coalition.
"If they try to impeach Gachagua, we in Azimio will not allow it," Kalonzo declared.
Kalonzo emphasized that Gachagua should not be intimidated by being labelled a villager.
"Politics is local, and Gachagua should not be afraid of being called a villager," he said.
He also criticized the government for its treatment of demonstrators and called for a moment of silence for those who have lost their lives to police violence.
"The right to demonstrate is enshrined in the constitution," Kalonzo reminded.
DAP Party leader Eugene Wamalwa stressed that Mount Kenya should not be discriminated against for supporting the principle of one person, one vote.
"Mount Kenya region isn't short of options, and Gachagua has options to work with everyone," Wamalwa said, urging the region to stay focused.
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga affirmed the region's steadfast support for both Gachagua and President William Ruto, warning that internal conflicts could derail national progress.
"Mount Kenya cannot afford to exit the government, but Rigathi Gachagua must be respected," Kahiga asserted.
Juja MP George Koimburi and Kieni MP Njoroge Wainaina voiced their support for Gachagua, emphasizing the need for respect and caution against political manipulation.
Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara urged leaders to respect Gachagua, drawing parallels with leaders from the Rift Valley.
Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba criticized perceived neglect from President Ruto regarding Mount Kenya's development needs, advocating for Gachagua's respect and support.
She highlighted the importance of allowing citizens to exercise their constitutional rights.
Former Laikipia Women Representative Cate Waruguru accused some individuals of being used to undermine Gachagua without cause, while former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu called for unity within the region to assert its political influence in future elections.