Rigathi Gachagua’s Redemption: Reshaping Mount Kenya’s Political Destiny

By Reuben Musonik, Political Editor, The Dispatch Digital

Disgraced but unbowed, Rigathi Gachagua, Kenya’s former Deputy President, has taken bold steps to rebuild his political career and completely win the trust of Mount Kenya residents following his impeachment. Over the past week, Gachagua’s activities have been deliberate, as he seeks to consolidate his support base while quietly reshaping the region’s political landscape. His calculated moves may have significant implications for President William Ruto, opposition leader Raila Odinga, and other key players in the Kenyan political arena.

The Storm of Betrayal and the Seeds of Resilience

Gachagua’s removal from office in October stirred political tensions in Mount Kenya, a region historically known for its unity and influence in national politics. Addressing residents during a Sunday service in Murang’a County, Gachagua alleged betrayal by President Ruto and his allies. He accused them of orchestrating his downfall, claiming his impeachment was part of a broader plan to weaken the region’s representation in the government​.

At a funeral in Kiambu County, he adopted a softer tone, urging calm and discouraging protests. “Our community is unique,” he said, describing Mount Kenya’s ability to channel frustration into quiet resilience rather than chaos. Gachagua even proposed traditional expressions such as song and dance as peaceful outlets, reflecting his strategy to maintain a dignified image while rallying support​.

Building a Narrative of Redemption

Gachagua has embraced a narrative of resilience, likening his political journey to that of Donald Trump. In a public statement, he congratulated Trump on his historic return to the U.S. presidency, drawing parallels to his own aspirations for a political comeback. This analogy underscores his effort to portray himself as a fighter against adversity, aiming to inspire loyalty among his supporters​.

His rhetoric has struck a chord with voters across Mount Kenya, particularly those frustrated with the government’s perceived failure to address key issues such as resource distribution and agricultural challenges. Gachagua’s call for equitable resource sharing, symbolized by his “one-man, one-shilling” slogan, continues to resonate deeply​.

Challenges for Allies-Turned-Adversaries

The fallout from Gachagua’s impeachment has sparked a backlash against MPs who supported his ouster. In Nyeri and Mathira constituencies, residents have openly protested against Duncan Mathenge and Eric Wamumbi, accusing them of betraying the region’s interests. Wamumbi, in particular, faces a recall campaign, with locals collecting signatures to initiate his removal. These incidents highlight the risks politicians face when perceived as prioritizing personal gain over regional unity​.

For Gachagua, these developments represent an opportunity to position himself as the defender of Mount Kenya’s integrity. By aligning himself with the grievances of ordinary citizens, he is effectively reclaiming his role as a regional leader while distancing himself from the Kenya Kwanza government.

Strategic Calculations and Alliances

Despite his criticisms of President Ruto, Gachagua has avoided direct confrontation with the administration, a move analysts view as strategic. By maintaining a careful balance, he reduces the risk of state reprisals while keeping the door open for potential alliances with opposition leaders like Kalonzo Musyoka, who has been making forays supported by key Jubilee leaders, in the Mt. Kenya region. Such a partnership could dramatically alter the political landscape, creating a formidable challenge to Ruto’s re-election ambitions in 2027​.

Political observers also note Gachagua’s efforts to court influential figures within Mount Kenya. His recent engagements with community leaders and local business stakeholders suggest a broader strategy to unify the region’s diverse constituencies under his leadership. By emphasizing economic empowerment and regional pride, Gachagua is building a coalition that could reshape Mount Kenya’s political dynamics​.

Impact on National Politics

Gachagua’s resurgence has significant implications for Kenya’s broader political landscape. For President Ruto, the former deputy president’s activities signal a potential threat to the Kenya Kwanza coalition’s stability. Mount Kenya’s political loyalty has been crucial to Ruto’s success, and any erosion of support could weaken his administration’s grip on power.

Kalonzo Musyoka, meanwhile, stands to benefit from Gachagua’s discontent with the ruling coalition. If the two leaders find common ground, they could form a powerful alliance capable of challenging Ruto’s dominance. Such a development would not only shift the balance of power but also force other political actors to reassess their strategies ahead of the next general election​.

The Road Ahead

Gachagua has hinted at a significant political announcement in January 2025, signaling a new phase in his comeback journey. Whether he intends to launch a new political movement or strengthen ties with existing opposition forces remains unclear. However, his ability to galvanize support in Mount Kenya will be critical to his success​.

For now, Gachagua’s activities serve as a reminder of the volatile nature of Kenyan politics. His story is one of resilience and reinvention, a testament to the enduring influence of regional leaders in shaping national discourse. As Mount Kenya grapples with its identity in the post Uhur Kenyatta era, the former deputy president’s actions are likely to leave a lasting impact on the region’s political trajectory.

Rigathi Gachagua’s calculated approach to reclaiming his political relevance underscores his resilience and strategic acumen. By addressing the grievances of Mount Kenya residents while avoiding direct confrontation with the government, he is positioning himself as a unifying figure capable of reshaping Kenya’s political future. Whether his efforts will culminate in a triumphant comeback or a continued struggle for relevance remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Gachagua’s journey is far from overand he is the force to reckon with in the Mt. Kenya region.