Former presidential adviser Moses Kuria has urged leaders from the Mt Kenya region to maintain unity, warning that dividing the area into separate political entities could undermine its collective influence.
His remarks come in response to Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku's recent calls for Mt Kenya East—comprising Meru, Embu, and Tharaka Nithi counties—to focus on its distinct development needs. Ruku has highlighted disparities, particularly in infrastructure, noting that over 77 percent of tarmacked roads in the Mt Kenya region are located in Mt Kenya West.
Ruku also pointed out unequal access to electricity, contrasting Kiambu County's 90 percent connectivity with lower rates in Tharaka Nithi County. He insists his position is aimed at addressing these inequalities rather than fostering division.
In response, Kuria acknowledged Ruku's concerns but emphasized the importance of solidarity. He highlighted the significance of Ruku's Mbeere North constituency, which has 54,000 registered voters, comparing it to Kamenu Ward in Thika Town, the country's most populous ward with 58,000 voters.
"Dear my brother CS Geoffrey Kiringa Ruku, I understand your frustration, but it is not a good idea to split the Mountain. We need each other and every vote," Kuria said, calling for unity among leaders and communities across Mt Kenya.
He concluded with a message of fraternity: "Tupendane, ndugu. Kenya ni yetu sisi sote", urging that the region work together to maximize its political and development potential.
