Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has intensified her appeal for politics centred on issues rather than ethnic affiliations, cautioning against ethnic mobilisation as Kenya prepares for the 2027 General Election.
Waiguru criticised remarks by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua that she says risk deepening tribal divisions. Responding to comments attributed to Duale after the Ol Kalou by-election, she described the alleged ethnic profiling as "deeply regrettable" and urged for an apology, emphasizing that Kenya belongs to all communities, including the Kikuyu.
She further condemned Gachagua's repeated ethnic rhetoric, underscoring that every Kenyan has the right to live, work, marry, and seek leadership anywhere in the country regardless of community. "Enough is enough. We need leadership that unites rather than divides," Waiguru stated.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has launched investigations into inflammatory statements from Gachagua, Duale, and other political figures, warning that such rhetoric threatens national cohesion and peace.
2027 Running Mate Speculations
Waiguru's name has surfaced in discussions about President William Ruto's possible running mate for the upcoming elections, credited to her development record and appeal beyond her traditional base.
According to a recent Infotrak survey, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki leads with 34% support as Ruto's preferred deputy, followed by Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga at 11%, Siaya Senator Oburu Oginga at 5%, and former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho at 4%. Waiguru garnered 3%, ahead of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, each with 2%.
Political analyst Calvin Muga notes that while Waiguru has some influence in Mt Kenya, the region's political landscape has shifted. He suggests any candidate not aligned with Gachagua may struggle to secure significant votes in the area.
Waiguru continues to emphasize that Kenya's political dialogue should prioritise leadership, service delivery, and unity over ethnic identity as the election season unfolds.
