Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has strongly rejected claims by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that he is working to divide the Mount Kenya region ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kindiki said the people of the Mount Kenya region remain united despite political differences among leaders. He argued that political disagreements should be settled through policies and elections rather than accusations of division.
His remarks came after Gachagua accused Kindiki of attempting to create a split between the eastern and western parts of Mount Kenya.
Kindiki dismissed the claims, questioning Gachagua’s ability to unite the region while criticising leaders who support President William Ruto.
He said political leaders should focus on issues that affect residents instead of using regional differences to gain political support.
The Deputy President also maintained that the GEMA community has remained united despite the different political positions taken by its leaders.
The exchange adds to growing political tension in the Mount Kenya region as politicians position themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.
Gachagua has been seeking to strengthen his political influence in the region after his fallout with President Ruto and his removal from the Deputy President’s office.
Kindiki, who succeeded Gachagua as Deputy President, has remained a key figure in the Ruto administration and has defended the government against criticism from his predecessor.
The latest disagreement shows that the political contest over Mount Kenya is likely to remain intense as the 2027 elections approach.
Both leaders are expected to continue seeking support from residents as different political groups work to build their bases across the region.