DP Rigathi Gachagua doubts President William Ruto’s chances for re-election in 2027. According to Gachagua, Ruto will struggle to gather even 2 million votes without the Kikuyu vote.
The deputy president believes Ruto is gambling with his political future as the next election approaches.
Unlike in 2022, when Ruto confidently relied on Kikuyu’s support, his image is tarnished.
Why DP Gachagua Believes Ruto’s Re-Election Hinges on Murima’s Support
In the high-stakes political chess game leading up to the 2027 elections, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has one thing clear in his mind—President William Ruto cannot clinch re-election without the unwavering support of the ‘Murima’ community.
Behind closed doors, Gachagua is pushing this narrative hard, convinced that Ruto’s survival in Kenya’s cutthroat political arena depends on consolidating the Kikuyu vote, a bloc historically known for tipping the scales in decisive elections.
But why Murima? For Gachagua, the Mount Kenya region represents a political fortress, one that holds the keys to power.
Without its backing, even Ruto’s formidable political machine might sputter. Gachagua, being a son of Murima, knows that this stronghold is no longer guaranteed.
The once-solid base has shown signs of cracking, with fractures emerging from internal dissatisfaction, economic frustrations, and growing opposition alliances keen on exploiting any weaknesses.
Despite his confidence in Ruto’s leadership, Gachagua privately fears that a divided Murima vote would be catastrophic for their political future.
His strategy? A relentless campaign to ensure that the Murima people remain firmly in Ruto’s corner, even as his critics argue that the DP’s own ambitions are clouding his judgment. Gachagua knows the stakes—and they are personal. His political career and credibility are intertwined with Ruto’s success.
Signs of Trouble at UDA
Recent events highlight growing discontent within Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA). At a recent conference at Bomas of Kenya, a gathering meant to boost UDA turned into an anti-Ruto rally.
Organizers, including state operative Dennis Itumbi, paid university students to attend. However, the crowd disrupted the event, chanting “yote yawezekana bila Ruto” (“everything is possible without Ruto”). This incident suggests a fracture within Ruto’s base.
Ruto’s attempts to consolidate power are failing, especially as he struggles to manage tensions between Gachagua and Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki.
During a church service in Nyeri, Ruto notably skipped an event where Gachagua was expected to sit next to him, signaling a clear rift. Ruto even admonished Gachagua to focus on governance instead of early campaigning for 2027.
Political Attacks and Impeachment Threats
The attacks on Gachagua have intensified. Kimani Ichung’wah, the majority leader, called for Gachagua’s ouster, likening him to a snake that could harm Ruto. He accused Gachagua of divisive politics, which has alienated many Mt. Kenya MPs.
Ichung’wah claims that Gachagua’s style is threatening the region’s unity and has led to intimidation among his colleagues. In response, Gachagua’s allies rallied over 50 lawmakers to strategize against potential impeachment.
They argue that any attempt to remove him from office will be met with fierce resistance. Gathoni Wamuchomba, an MP from Gachagua’s camp, insisted that the power to impeach lies with the electorate, not politicians.
DP Gachagua and The Future of Mt. Kenya Politics
Gachagua faces not only internal opposition but also the looming influence of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who still commands respect among many in Mt. Kenya. Uhuru is reportedly promoting former Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe as a key player in the upcoming elections.
As tensions rise, Gachagua warns his rivals in Mt. Kenya of the consequences they will face in the 2027 elections. He has drawn parallels to an old Kikuyu tale, indicating that those who plot against him will ultimately face their own downfall.
In a rapidly shifting political landscape, Gachagua knows that without Mt. Kenya’s backing, Ruto’s chances for a second term remain uncertain. The upcoming elections will test not only Ruto’s leadership but also the unity and loyalty of the Kikuyu community.
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