Gachagua: I won’t allow Ruto to Split up Mt Kenya

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has declared that he will not allow President William Ruto to divide the Mount Kenya community’s political voice, insisting that unity in the region must be protected at all costs.

Speaking to the press in Muranga on Thursday, September 25, 2025, Gachagua said Ruto was plotting to weaken the united opposition by using divide-and-rule tactics.

“Na mimi naita viongozi ndio niseme, William Ruto anapanga kugawanya hii jamii yetu wa mlima ndio atukalie. Na nimekataza na sitamkubalia. Na mimi najua anatengeneza ma wheelbarrow, mingi sana.”

Tunajua amepanga atume watu wake wagawanye united opposition. Hatutakubalia yeye. Kwa sababu tukugawayika, atatuweza,” he said.

Gachagua’s remarks highlight growing political tensions between him and the President, once seen as close allies.

The Mt. Kenya region has historically held significant sway in national politics due to its large voting bloc. Leaders from the area have often jostled to be recognised as the political spokesperson for the community, a position that grants influence both locally and nationally.

Gachagua, who served as Deputy President from 2022 to 2024, has increasingly cast himself as the custodian of that unity.

In recent months, he has repeatedly warned against external forces seeking to exploit divisions in the mountain. His latest declaration signals a hardening stance, especially as the country inches closer to future political contests where Mt Kenya’s vote will be crucial.

Observers note that his reference to “wheelbarrows” was a direct jab at Ruto’s political machinery, which rose to prominence through the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party symbol.

By suggesting that “wheelbarrows” are being manufactured to divide the community, Gachagua was making a pointed accusation that loyalists were being planted to weaken his influence.

If by chance Gachagua successfully maintains his grip as the region’s political kingpin, he could shape the direction of national politics in the years ahead.

As per Gachagua’s remarks, Mt. Kenya’s unity is not negotiable, and he is prepared to stand against any attempt to break it.