By Judy Maina
NAIROBI, Kenya — In a significant escalation of Kenya’s political dynamics, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly accused President William Ruto of orchestrating a strategy to fragment the Mt. Kenya voting bloc ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a rally in Murang’a County on Saturday, May 17, Gachagua alleged that President Ruto is backing multiple political parties in the Mt. Kenya region to dilute its electoral influence.
He specifically named Chama Cha Kazi (CCK), The Service Party (TSP), and Tujibebe Party as entities allegedly supported by Ruto. Gachagua further claimed that plans are underway to establish two additional parties in Murang’a.
“Ruto is planning to start many parties in Mt. Kenya. There are already parties like the one by Moses Kuria, that’s Ruto’s party; the one by Kiunjuri is another Ruto’s party; the one by Kabogo is also Ruto’s party.
There are two more parties he is planning to start in Murang’a. If you hear of a newly registered party that is not DCP, just know that it is Ruto’s party,” Gachagua stated.
In response, Moses Kuria, leader of Chama Cha Kazi and President Ruto’s Senior Economic Adviser, dismissed Gachagua’s assertions.
Kuria emphasized that CCK has been an independent entity and criticized Gachagua for attempting to “vandalize” parties nurtured over years. He also highlighted past efforts to align with Gachagua, which were rebuffed.
The political rift has been further accentuated by Gachagua’s recent launch of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) on May 15. Positioned as a grassroots movement, DCP aims to consolidate support in the Mt. Kenya region and challenge the current administration’s policies.
The party’s establishment signals Gachagua’s intent to redefine his political trajectory and galvanize opposition ahead of the upcoming elections.
As Kenya approaches the 2027 elections, the unfolding political realignments underscore the evolving dynamics within the country’s leadership and the strategic maneuvers employed by key figures to secure regional and national influence.
