A growing number of political leaders from the Mt Kenya region are avoiding public declarations of support for President William Ruto, highlighting rising uncertainty and political realignment in the vote-rich area ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Among those widely regarded as “fence sitters” are Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata, Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi, Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha, and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro.
Most were elected on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in 2022 but have since taken a cautious stance amid tensions between President Ruto and his former deputy, Rigathi Gachagua.
Political analysts note that many of these leaders, serving their first terms, face a difficult choice: back Ruto or align with Gachagua, who has positioned himself as the political face of Mt Kenya following his impeachment in 2024. With re-election at stake, the leaders appear unwilling to risk alienating voters increasingly divided over the President’s leadership.
At recent public events, several leaders spoke in coded language rather than openly stating allegiance. Governor Kang’ata, at a burial in Murang’a, told residents that it would be the people who ultimately guide his political direction. Similarly, Governor Badilisha said his decisions would reflect the will of Nyandarua residents, citing a “contract” signed with voters in 2022.
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro, once considered a close Ruto ally, has also refrained from taking a clear political stand, focusing instead on governance issues. His silence has drawn criticism from Gachagua, who has urged Mt Kenya leaders to declare loyalty or face political consequences.
Through his Democracy for the Citizens Party, launched in 2025, Gachagua continues to court Mt Kenya politicians, arguing that the region has withdrawn support from Ruto.
As political temperatures rise, the ongoing silence by key Mt Kenya leaders underscores the high-stakes calculations shaping the region’s politics ahead of the next election cycle.
Tags
Politics