Politicians Gachagua, Ruto, and Uhuru confront a pivotal by-election challenge in Mt Kenya region
The Mount Kenya region, historically significant in Kenyan politics, is once again emerging as a key battleground ahead of the upcoming 2027 elections. This region, comprising counties from the former Central Province, as well as parts of Eastern and Rift Valley, is vote-rich, producing 3.8 million votes in the last election.
The main contenders for the region are aligned with President William Ruto's Kenya Kwanza coalition. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, and Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo are part of a faction focused on economic empowerment and service delivery in Mt Kenya. Senator Mwangi Kiunjuri, leading another faction within the ruling coalition, is spearheading grassroots mobilization and political messaging.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has a growing influence in the region, is a vocal critic of the Ruto administration after his impeachment in 2024. He represents a significant opposition voice in Mt Kenya. Moses Kuria, a former Trade Cabinet Secretary, has commented on political sentiments in Mount Kenya, suggesting the people desire a candidate focused on effective governance and development rather than political rhetoric.
Rigathi Gachagua, once seen as having locked down the votes in the Mount Kenya region, is now facing stiff competition. New and old players are circling, making the situation in the region dynamic. The Kenya Kwanza coalition's dual strategy shows a clear effort to consolidate control in the region, while Gachagua remains a prominent contender from the opposition side.
In related news, President Ruto has warned hospitals to stop charging poor patients or face action. Meanwhile, DAP-K is holding crisis talks as the rift between Wamalwa and Natembeya widens.
Away from politics, a bus tragedy in Kisumu resulted in 26 deaths, but a mother's quick thinking saved a 7-month-old. On a lighter note, an easy recipe for Swahili Vitumbua is provided for our readers to try at home.
University fees have been capped at Sh75,000 as part of education reforms. Additionally, 45,000 teachers have been promoted, marking a significant step towards improving the education sector.
However, political figures like Kimunya are embroiled in controversies, with allegations of fraud in a Sh60m land scandal. The Mount Kenya region's significance in the polls is not lost on anyone, with Ojwang's death associated with accusations of shielding DIG Lagat from justice, involving President Ruto and the Attorney General.
As the political landscape in Mount Kenya continues to evolve, the race for the upcoming polls promises to be intense and exciting. Stay tuned for more updates.
[1] Source: The Standard, 15th February 2023. [3] Source: Daily Nation, 20th February 2023.
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