- Former Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria has signalled a possible alliance with former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua, whom he now praises as Mt Kenya’s rising kingpin.
- But before they could work together, Kuria wanted Gachagua to tone down his attacks on fellow leaders who differ with him politically, especially women
- The possible shift would come after months of the two leaders’ rivalry, with Gachagua previously accusing Kuria of dividing Mt Kenya on behalf of President William Ruto
Former Gatundu South legislator Moses Kuria appears to be leaning toward aligning himself with former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua.
Source: Getty Images
In a tweet posted on Saturday evening, October 11, Kuria described Gachagua as Mt Kenya’s emerging kingpin, highlighting his success in rallying regional support.
He acknowledged that Gachagua has become a central figure in Mt Kenya politics, widely respected and listened to, and predicted that he would soon attain the title of the region’s definitive kingpin.
Kuria hinted at the possibility of joining Gachagua’s political camp in the near future.
“To my brother Rigathi Gachagua. I am an honest man. By now you know that. It is an undeniable fact that the majority of our Mt Kenya people listen to you. You are ahead of the rest of us. You are edging closer to being our undisputed Kingpin in the Mountain. In fact, just like Gideon Moi and William Ruto are working together, I might consider working with you very soon,” he said.
Despite this, Kuria pointed out that Gachagua’s tendency to speak harshly about those who disagree with him could water down his progress in emerging as a formidable force in national politics.
He said he could consider joining Gachagua’s camp, but attributed his hesitation to what he suggested as Gachagua’s “loose tongue.”
Kuria’s observation came after Gachagua’s outbursts on governors Anne Waiguru (Kirinyaga) and Cecily Mbarire (Embu).
Addressing a political rally in Embu on Saturday, Gachagua launched a scathing attack on the two county bosses who continue to support President William Ruto.
He criticised them for remaining loyal to Ruto, even as Mt Kenya’s political tide appears to be shifting.
Reacting to Gachagua’s remarks, Kuria expressed concern that such outbursts were undermining the political stature Gachagua had worked to build.
He advised him to exercise restraint, particularly when addressing female leaders, and to embrace a more mature approach befitting his rising influence.
“I have only one humble request. Kindly refrain from insulting our leaders in general, our women leaders in particular and all Mt Kenya women by extension. Doesn’t really sound commensurate with your undisputed kingpin status. Kindly sir. With profound respect!” he said.
Kuria’s apparent overtures toward Gachagua mark a shift from their previous rivalry.
Gachagua had earlier accused him of acting as Ruto’s emissary in Mt Kenya, claiming he (Kuria) was among those used to break the region’s political unity.
Kuria, who leads the Chama Cha Kazi (CCK) party, dismissed those claims, asserting his independence and political strength to be his own person politically, far from Ruto’s hand.
Kuria resigned from the Kenya Kwanza regime in July this year.
Before his resignation, he served as Ruto’s senior economic advisor. He had previously held Cabinet positions in Trade and Industry, as well as the Public Service docket.
Should Kuria formally join Gachagua’s camp, it would significantly strengthen the former deputy president’s efforts to consolidate Mt Kenya’s political base ahead of the 2027 general election.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
