Mt. Kenya Votes Up for Grabs as Old Alliances Break and New Ones Emerge

The political landscape of Kenya's Mt. Kenya region is experiencing significant upheaval as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's efforts to consolidate power under his Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) face mounting opposition. 

Gachagua's post-impeachment strategy to establish the DCP as the dominant political force has ignited a fierce power struggle, with the resurgence of the Jubilee Party, backed by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, emerging as a primary challenger ahead of the 2027 General Election. Gachagua's move to create a unified political front exclusively aligned with the DCP has been met with strong criticism, with rivals asserting that his vision stifles political diversity and threatens to transform the region into a one-party stronghold. 

This has precipitated a mobilization of alternative political factions determined to counter his growing influence. Since his impeachment, Gachagua has actively campaigned to consolidate support under the DCP, advocating for a single, unified party in the region. This approach mirrors the centralized political control observed in areas like Raila Odinga's stronghold, where loyalty to a single party is paramount. During a recent interview on Kameme TV, Gachagua said, "If Mt. Kenya can rally behind one party, we will ensure political strength even if we are in opposition." 

He also accuses Kenyatta of facilitating President William Ruto's political encroachment into the region during the last election, asserting, "I personally resisted that arrangement because it put our political identity at risk." 

While Gachagua argues that his consolidation strategy is essential to prevent political fragmentation in Mt. Kenya, critics maintain that it undermines democratic plurality. Consequently, alternative political entities have emerged to challenge his dominance. The most significant challenge to Gachagua's aspirations comes from the revival of the Jubilee Party, the former ruling party under Kenyatta's leadership. 

Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has been linked to this resurgence, with speculation increasing about his potential candidacy in the 2027 presidential race. Jubilee strategists view Matiang'i's candidacy as a strategic move to reclaim political influence in Mt. Kenya while simultaneously preventing Gachagua from establishing a monopoly over the region's electorate. Former Nyeri Town MP Ngunjiri Wambugu, previously aligned with Gachagua, has now pledged his support for Jubilee, further intensifying the power struggle. 

"This is about reestablishing a viable political force that resonates with the people, not about creating a personality cult around one leader," Wambugu said, accusing Gachagua of political intolerance.

Adding to this momentum, former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has indicated his willingness to rejoin Jubilee. Kuria, who once served as a key figure in Jubilee before breaking ranks to support Ruto, said, "I was elected under Jubilee. My return is not about political opportunism but about reclaiming a party that has deep roots in our history."

Despite the rising opposition, Gachagua remains steadfast in his efforts to solidify the DCP's control over Mt. Kenya. He insists that alternative parties must be vetted to ensure they align with his broader political agenda. 

"Any political outfit that does not further our cause will be fought with passion," Gachagua declared.

Gachagua has also voiced his opposition to Matiang'i running under the Jubilee banner, arguing that it would weaken the DCP's bargaining power in opposition coalitions. He suggests that Matiang'i should form his own party if he intends to run, a suggestion quickly dismissed by Jubilee officials as a sign of fear. 

"Those advising Matiang'i to form his own party are simply afraid of a revitalized Jubilee," Jubilee Secretary-General Jeremiah Kioni said.

These growing tensions reflect a deeper struggle for regional supremacy and control over a critical voting bloc. Political analysts contend that the battle is not just about party structures but about shaping the future direction of Mt. Kenya. 

"There's a scramble for leadership in Mt. Kenya, with various players positioning themselves for 2027. Gachagua outpaced many of his competitors before, but now, they are regrouping," noted Prof. Macharia Munene, a political analyst.

Amid this external competition, Jubilee is also grappling with internal challenges. Leadership struggles between Kioni and Vice Chairperson David Murathe suggest that a power shake-up may be necessary for the party to remain competitive.

Kioni remains optimistic that Jubilee can reassert its dominance, arguing that the party's track record makes it the most viable option. 

"Jubilee is still the strongest political vehicle, not just for Mt. Kenya but nationally. Our development record speaks for itself," Kioni said. 

However, some members, including Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, have called for radical reforms to strengthen Jubilee, suggesting that Matiang'i's presidential bid could only be successful if Jubilee underwent significant restructuring.