The United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the ruling party in Kenya, is experiencing internal divisions as Mt. Kenya East leaders distance themselves from Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
This shift was made evident during a key meeting held on September 9, 2024, at the Izaak Walton Inn in Embu County, where the region's leaders expressed their unanimous support for Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki.
The leaders’ decision to back Kindiki instead of Gachagua represents a significant realignment within UDA, highlighting a deeper split within the party.
In a bold move, leaders from Embu, Tharaka Nithi, and Meru counties announced their collective decision to abandon Gachagua in favor of Kindiki, citing the need for a stronger development-focused partnership with the national government.
According to the leaders, the region requires a figure like Kindiki who can effectively link Mt. Kenya East to the presidency and help prioritize the completion of key development projects.
The shift comes after months of simmering tension within the UDA party, with various factions expressing dissatisfaction with Gachagua's leadership.
The Mt. Kenya East leaders made it clear that their primary concern is the development of their region, rather than political loyalty. They emphasized that Kindiki’s role in the government offers a more direct and productive channel for addressing their region's needs.
During the meeting, the leaders expressed their gratitude to President William Ruto for appointing three Cabinet Secretaries from Mt. Kenya East: Kithure Kindiki, Justin Muturi, and Eng. Eric Mugaa.
They argued that these appointments demonstrate the President's recognition of the region's importance and his willingness to engage with its leadership to further national development.
"These appointments reflect the trust and recognition the President has placed on Mount Kenya East, and we are grateful for their opportunity to serve in the national leadership," the leaders remarked.
The leaders believe that these appointments will ensure that the region has a stronger voice in national decision-making processes.
However, they also made it clear that their support for Kindiki goes beyond just political recognition—they see him as the key to unlocking the economic potential of Mt. Kenya East through strategic government partnerships.
The shift in political allegiance is not solely about personalities or political power plays. The Mt. Kenya East leaders stressed the urgency of completing several critical infrastructure projects that were started under the previous administration.
They called on the national government to expedite the completion of road networks, water distribution systems, and electrification projects that are vital for the region’s growth and prosperity.
These projects, according to the leaders, are essential for improving the livelihoods of residents and ensuring long-term economic development.
By aligning with Kindiki, the leaders hope to bring greater attention to these unfinished projects and ensure that Mt. Kenya East receives its fair share of national resources.