By Swaleh
Rigathi Gachagua’s bid to maintain his influence in Central Kenya has faced a significant setback. On September 18, over 2,000 Njuri Ncheke elders publicly broke ranks with the Deputy President, endorsing Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki as their representative to President William Ruto’s administration.
In a large gathering, the elders from Meru and Tharaka declared their allegiance to Kindiki, asserting that he has met the Njuri Ncheke’s criteria for leadership. They called on him to collaborate with Ruto to drive development in the region, emphasizing the need for equitable progress akin to other parts of the country.
“We, the Njuri Ncheke elders from Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties, have gathered here to declare that Kithure Kindiki, who has a strong working relationship with President William Ruto, is our preferred leader. Today, Njuri Ncheke has endorsed him as our kingpin and spokesperson,” the elders stated. They expressed confidence that Kindiki’s national stature would help foster better relations with other regions.
This shift signals growing discontent among influential leaders in Mt. Kenya regarding Gachagua’s leadership, raising questions about his future role in the region’s political dynamics. As Gachagua faces these challenges, the endorsement of Kindiki by such a large group of elders underscores the potential for a significant power shift in Central Kenya.
