Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has revealed an ambitious plan aimed at shaking up Mt. Kenya politics and cementing the dominance of his yet-to-be-unveiled political party. In a recent interview with KTN, Gachagua disclosed that several elected leaders from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) are ready to resign and seek re-election under his new party, a move he believes will boost its popularity and punish President William Ruto for what he describes as betrayal.
Why the Delay in Announcing the Party?
Initially, Gachagua’s political faction had planned to launch the new party in January, but this was postponed to May. According to him, the decision was strategic—waiting for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to be fully constituted so that the by-elections can be conducted smoothly. This delay suggests a well-calculated move to ensure that the new political vehicle gets a solid start with elected leaders.
“Our People Are Bitter with the President”
Gachagua claims that the people of Mt. Kenya feel betrayed by President Ruto and are eager to teach him a lesson before 2027. “Our people are very bitter with the president; they feel like they can’t wait for 2027 to teach him a lesson,” he said.
By pushing for mass resignations, Gachagua seeks to demonstrate his influence in the region and prove that Ruto’s support among Mt. Kenya leaders is weakening. He insists that over 100 MCAs, as well as a number of MPs and senators, have committed to resigning from UDA and vying again under the new party’s ticket.
Who Are the Leaders Set to Resign?
Among the politicians rumored to be part of this bold strategy include:
• Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba
• Nyandarua Senator John Methu
• Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa
• Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu
• Kirinyaga Woman Rep Njeri Maina among others
Gachagua has congratulated those willing to take the risk, drawing parallels to Raila Odinga, who resigned from Ford Kenya in the 1990s and successfully ran under the National Development Party (NDP). “Parties are made strong by by-elections,” he argued, dismissing concerns that the move is reckless and costly to taxpayers.
Is This a Selfish Move?
Critics argue that forcing by-elections would be a waste of public resources, given the high cost of conducting such polls. However, Gachagua fired back, claiming that the current government already misuses money in many ways, so holding by-elections should not be viewed as unnecessary spending.
Mt. Kenya’s Political Future: A Coalition with Raila Odinga?
Perhaps the most intriguing part of Gachagua’s interview was his openness to working with Raila Odinga and other like-minded leaders. This marks a significant shift in Mt. Kenya politics, as the region has historically been opposed to Raila’s leadership. If Gachagua successfully builds a coalition with opposition forces, it could create a new political dynamic ahead of the 2027 elections.
Will Gachagua’s Plan Succeed?
The big question remains: Will Mt. Kenya leaders be bold enough to resign and seek re-election under Gachagua’s new party? Political history has shown that such risks can either strengthen or destroy a politician’s career. If Gachagua’s plan succeeds, he could position himself as the undisputed kingpin of Mt. Kenya politics. However, if the plan backfires, it could further divide the region and weaken his influence.
As the May announcement approaches, all eyes will be on Gachagua and his next moves. Will he shake the political landscape or face resistance from within? Only time will tell.
