Nominated National Assembly Member Sabina Chege has recognized the political grievances felt by the Mt Kenya East counties of Tharaka Nithi, Embu, and Meru. Speaking on K24 TV on August 5, 2026, she highlighted a history of perceived political imbalance within the broader Mt Kenya region.
Chege pointed out that Mt Kenya East has historically supported leaders from the western side of the mountain, including backing Kenneth Matiba in 1992, Mwai Kibaki in 2002, and Uhuru Kenyatta in the 2013 and 2017 elections. She noted that Tharaka Nithi played a crucial role in delivering victory for President Kibaki in 2007.
Despite this longstanding political solidarity, Chege said the eastern counties now feel sidelined, especially as Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, a native of Mt Kenya East, occupies a top national position without receiving expected support from Mt Kenya West.
"The people of Tharaka Nithi feel that now that one of their own is Deputy President, the western side should back them, but they are not," Chege said, urging calm and restraint among the aggrieved communities.
Calls for Mt Kenya East to Pursue Independent Politics
The remarks come amid growing advocacy for Mt Kenya East to chart an independent political path. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has championed this cause, asserting that Embu, Meru, and Tharaka Nithi alone can deliver enough votes to secure President William Ruto’s re-election in 2027 without relying on western counties.
However, Deputy President Kindiki criticized Ruku’s stance, describing it as divisive and urging him to focus on his Cabinet duties rather than stoking regional tensions.
Regional Leaders Push for Unity
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has also rejected claims of division within Mt Kenya. He has toured the eastern counties, emphasizing the importance of maintaining unity ahead of the upcoming general election.
Chege echoed this sentiment, warning that splitting the mountain politically would weaken the region’s collective influence. She urged leaders and residents to prioritize cohesion over fragmentation as the 2027 elections approach.
