FOCUSED DIALOGUE

Mt Kenya Unity Forum to be revived, says MP Kiunjuri

The TSP leader said leaders from the region will soon meet to chart the way forward

In Summary
  • Mwangi Kiunjuri said Mt Kenya Unity Forum will be dedicated to addressing the needs of the region rather than engaging in personality politics.
  • Kiunjuri clarified that his differences with Gachagua are political, not personal.
Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri
Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri
Image: FILE

Laikipia East MP Mwangi Kiunjuri has unveiled plans to revive a forum that has been pushing for Mt Kenya unity.

The TSP party leader said Mt Kenya Unity Forum will be dedicated to addressing the needs of the region rather than engaging in personality politics.

Kiunjuri's announcement comes amid political discussions and tensions among a section of Mt Kenya leaders.

There have been concerns that past efforts to unite the region have failed because they were anchored on personalities rather than issues.

Kiunjuri said the realisation underscores the importance of focused dialogue and cooperation to tackle community issues.

In an interview with Inooro FM on Tuesday, Kiunjuri revealed the reformed forum will operate without designated leaders, instead relying on conveners to facilitate discussions.

The aim, he said, is to address broad regional issues, rather than delving into individual matters.

“The forum, which was postponed last month, will reconvene soon with a clear focus on serving and addressing regional concerns,” Kiunjuri said.

The MP denied media claims that forum discussions during President William Ruto’s visit to Central included debates over the impeachment of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

“We have come together as Mt Kenya leaders and very soon will have a meeting with more than 60 elected leaders irrespective of political alignments. Our focus has always been on issues that benefit the people of this region, not on personal or political disputes,” Kiunjuri said.

The MP said a meeting of Mt Kenya leaders will be convened soon to strategise and plan the way forward.

“Our priority is Mt Kenya region. We are not targeting individuals, despite what some reports may suggest,” he said.

Kiunjuri clarified that his differences with Gachagua are political, not personal.

“You cannot go around labelling elected leaders as traitors and then claim to be uniting the people, but we are now happy that the DP has climbed down," he said.

"I saw him on top of his vehicle saying the Mountain region is fully inside the government. That is what we have always wanted him to declare.” 

A week ago, Gachagua addressed Kikuyu radio stations, criticising unnamed leaders whom he claimed were exploiting anti-government protests for political gain.

Gachagua acknowledged the internal conflicts within Mt Kenya and urged leaders to support Ruto and work towards unity.

“I urge our people to stop these internal fights and support President Ruto in delivering on his promises. We must remain united and speak with one voice,” Gachagua stated.

During a recent three-day tour of the region, President Ruto pleaded with leaders to support each other and promote growth.

"I want to plead with my fellow leaders not to divide Kenyans. We must unite our people for the sake of peace and development," he said.

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