Gachagua: I will block Ruto’s plans to split Mt Kenya

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua returned to Embu County and told off President William Ruto over his alleged plans to divide the Mount Kenya region ahead of the 2027 General Election.

He vowed to block Dr Ruto from interfering with the vote-rich region.

Speaking Saturday in Manyatta town, Mr Gachagua accused the Head of State of funding the formation of small political parties to divide votes in the region.

“Ruto’s attempts will be an exercise in futility,” said Mr Gachagua.

He boasted that Mt Kenya is the DCP stronghold and that the President will not be able to divide it.

“Moi tried to divide the Mountain twice, but he did not succeed. Even Ruto’s plans will hit a brick wall,” said Mr Gachagua.

At the same time, Mr Gachagua blamed the return of toxic brews in the Mountain on President Ruto’s government.

He claimed the government was deliberately allowing the sale of the brews to ruin the lives of youthful eligible voters within the Mountain.

He promised to eradicate the brews should DCP take over power in the next General Election.

“When I was in government, I fought the brews and youths’ lives were improved. The brews are back again due to poor leadership by President Ruto,” he said.

Further, Mr Gachagua warned that all President Ruto’s allies from the Mt Kenya region will be voted out.

“All the traitors will be shown the exit. They have betrayed us and they must be sent home,” said Mr Gachagua.

Mr Gachagua praised Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji as a courageous leader and endorsed him to run for the Embu gubernatorial seat on the DCP ticket.

“Mukunji is a very bold person who has been calling out President Ruto’s oppressive leadership and he deserves to be politically promoted,” he said.

He asked Embu residents to give their votes to Mukunji in 2027 to replace Governor Cecily Mbarire, a close ally of President Ruto.

He said Embu, as well as Kenya, requires patriotic and competent leaders who have the interests of citizens at heart.

On farming, Mr Gachagua claimed that the government was introducing levies on tea to reduce farmers’ payments.

“What the government is doing is unacceptable. We shall not allow farmers to be exploited by this cruel government,” he said.

He said the opposition was alert and would protect farmers at whatever cost.

Mr Mukunji said his ambition to become Embu Governor was unstoppable.

“I’m confident that I shall win the gubernatorial seat and serve my people well,” he said.

Reporting originally appeared via Nation Africa. Read the full source for additional context.