Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has criticized former President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for allegedly portraying the Mt Kenya community as unreliable in their political commitments.
Speaking after Sunday Mass at St. Joseph's Catholic Cathedral in Meru Town, Ruku emphasized that Mt Kenya remains steadfast in its promise to back President William Ruto for two constitutional terms. He recalled that Uhuru and other regional leaders had previously campaigned nationwide, securing support for President Ruto’s full tenure following Uhuru’s own term.
Ruku questioned why these leaders are now encouraging the region to oppose President Ruto before his term ends, suggesting this undermines the community’s credibility.
Accusations of Division and False Narratives
The CS accused Uhuru and Gachagua of spreading misleading claims that the Kenya Kwanza government has marginalized Mt Kenya. He argued these narratives are designed to sow division and serve personal political agendas rather than the region’s development.
Further, Ruku stated that Gachagua is conflating his personal political challenges—stemming from his constitutional removal from office—with the interests of the entire Mt Kenya community.
Representation in Government
Ruku highlighted that President Ruto’s administration includes significant representation from Mt Kenya, noting that key ministries and departments are led by figures from Mt Kenya West, while Deputy President Kithure Kindiki represents Mt Kenya East at the highest level.
The CS condemned attempts by some Mt Kenya West leaders to undermine Deputy President Kindiki through criticism, while simultaneously urging the public to abandon the Kenya Kwanza government.
Commitment to Development and Unity
Reaffirming the region’s loyalty, Ruku assured that Mt Kenya East will continue supporting President Ruto’s agenda, prioritizing unity and development. He cited ongoing government projects across the region, referencing data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics that indicate progress in areas previously neglected.
He urged residents to reject misinformation propagated by leaders pursuing personal interests and expressed confidence that Mt Kenya will overwhelmingly back President Ruto in the 2027 General Election.