Kenyan Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused Rift Valley leaders, who are close to President William Ruto, of interfering in Mount Kenya politics. Gachagua issued the statement when he attended a function in Uasin Gishu County yesterday. This accusation has sparked debate among political analysts and the public, with some supporting Gachagua’s stance against external interference and others criticizing his early political maneuvers.
“Rift Valley leaders who are close to the president should stop meddling and interfering with Mount Kenyan politics. We supported the president out of our free will, and we deserve respect. We do not have to have young leaders from Rift Valley trying to cause division in our backyard. We do not want political tourism,” said Gachagua.
The situation has highlighted potential rifts within the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, with speculation about Ruto’s future running mate choices, including the possibility of a female candidate or a shift towards leaders like Ndindi Nyoro or Mudavadi.
According to political analysts, the jibes by the Deputy President were directed at Oscar Sudi and Kipchumba Murkomen, who have aligned themselves towards Ndindi Nyoro as their choice for President Ruto’s successor in 2032, which angered Rigathi Gachagua.