A fresh political debate has emerged after Saboti MP Caleb Amisi urged former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua to reconsider his approach to rebuilding influence in the Mt Kenya region.
In a detailed statement posted on X, Amisi argued that success in Central Kenya requires a strong performance record and clear political identity, not reliance on anti-government messaging or financial mobilisation.
Amisi’s remarks come at a time when Mt Kenya politics remains fluid following the 2022 elections, which saw the region deliver a decisive vote for President William Ruto under the Kenya Kwanza coalition.
The area has historically shifted its loyalties depending on economic expectations, regional leadership dynamics and internal competition within dominant parties such as Jubilee in the past and UDA today.
In his statement, Amisi said that the tactic of urging supporters to accept government resources while voting differently is only effective for politicians with a clear record of development or those newly entering the political arena.
He pointed out that leaders who previously held powerful government positions but failed to leave a lasting impact are unlikely to benefit from such strategies.
The MP referenced Nyanza as an example of a region that has historically maintained political cohesion, especially during Raila Odinga’s campaigns.
He stated that supporters in the area consistently resisted state-backed incentives and instead backed Odinga based on long-standing political trust.
According to Amisi, this level of loyalty cannot be replicated without comparable grassroots engagement and a demonstrable legacy.
Addressing Gachagua directly, Amisi argued that the former deputy president must choose a more defined political path if he hopes to consolidate support.
He said the region would not deliver overwhelming backing to any politician who fails to articulate consistent principles or present a convincing case for leadership.
The comments were framed as advisory rather than confrontational, with Amisi emphasising that his counsel was “free” to those willing to reflect on it.
Mt Kenya leaders aligned with Gachagua did not immediately respond to the statement.
The region remains one of the most contested political blocs ahead of the next electoral cycle, with various factions positioning themselves for influence within and outside the ruling coalition.