CS Ruku Accuses Gachagua of Sowing Division in Mt Kenya

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has sharply criticised former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of sowing division in the Mt Kenya region by questioning the integrity of its leaders.

Speaking during an education event in Mbeere North, Ruku said Gachagua’s recent remarks were inappropriate and harmful, especially given his former position as the country’s second-in-command. He argued that such statements undermine the credibility of Mt Kenya’s leadership and threaten the region’s unity at a critical political moment.

“There is no leader in Mt Kenya who lacks credibility,” Ruku said, defending the region’s political representatives as committed to serving the public. 

He also questioned Gachagua’s moral authority, pointing to the former Deputy President’s associations with controversial figures. Ruku further positioned Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as the rightful political leader of Mt Kenya, describing him as a respected scholar of international law and a person of integrity. He said Kindiki’s leadership reflects the region’s values and the government’s confidence in his capability. 

“Prof Kindiki is an accomplished leader, well-educated, globally recognised and highly respected,” Ruku said.

The Cabinet Secretary made the remarks ahead of the upcoming Mbeere North parliamentary by-election, which is seen as a key test of the ruling coalition’s influence. Ruku voiced confidence that the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate, Leonard Muthende, would win, framing the contest as an endorsement of President William Ruto’s development agenda. 

He praised the local electorate as informed and development-minded, expressing faith in their support for the government’s programmes. While campaigning in Mumìnjì and Evurore wards, Ruku held a rally at Kanyuambora Stadium, located near the homes of opposition figures former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti and former Attorney General Justin Muturi, both of whom are backing the United Opposition candidate.