Kipipiri Member of Parliament Wanjiku Muhia has accused National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah of perceiving former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua as a political threat within Mt Kenya.

Speaking on a local radio station on July 29, 2026, Muhia said some leaders from the region were eager to consolidate power in President William Ruto's administration. She singled out Ichung’wah, suggesting he feared Gachagua's assertiveness would eclipse his own influence.

Ruto Allies Misjudged Gachagua’s Political Strength

Muhia argued that lawmakers allied to President Ruto wrongly assumed Gachagua would lose relevance soon after his impeachment in October 2024. Despite being removed from office following a Senate decision, Gachagua’s political movement has grown stronger and more independent.

"Ruto-allied MPs miscalculated," Muhia stated. "They thought Gachagua would be forgotten within weeks, but his support has since evolved into a self-sustaining movement."

She further described the political shift as a public reaction to dissatisfaction with the current government, claiming many have abandoned the administration except those benefiting personally.

Political Rivalry Intensifies Ahead of 2027 Elections

Muhia referenced the recent Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election as evidence that government backing does not guarantee electoral success. The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) candidate, Sammy Kamau Ngotho, won decisively over the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate, Samuel Muchina Nyagah.

"Ol Kalou voters demonstrated that even with access to government resources, they can vote against the ruling party," Muhia noted, highlighting the contest as a direct test of influence between Ruto’s UDA and Gachagua’s DCP in Mt Kenya.

Her comments add fuel to the ongoing power struggle in the region, placing Ichung’wah at the center of accusations that key Ruto allies underestimated Gachagua’s resilience post-impeachment.

By the time of publication, Ichung’wah had not responded publicly to Muhia’s allegations. The two camps have frequently exchanged accusations, including prior threats of legal action by Ichung’wah over claims of electoral interference attributed to Gachagua.