Silverio Omari
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, once a staunch supporter of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, has shifted his position and endorsed the appointment of Kithure Kindiki. Previously, Kahiga had issued warnings of undisclosed repercussions should Gachagua be impeached, but he has now emphasized the importance of national unity, stating that “the country is bigger than all of us,” and affirmed the need to support the new deputy president.
“We have no issue with Kindiki, and we are okay with his appointment,” Kahiga said during a speech in Nyeri. He also expressed his best wishes to President William Ruto, pledging continued support as Ruto works to fulfill his obligations to the nation. Nonetheless, Kahiga urged the president not to overlook Nyeri County following Gachagua’s removal, stressing, “Nyeri should not be forgotten in the government’s plans. That was our seat, and with three years remaining, we deserve consideration.”
Kahiga further remarked, “We do not want to be left watching others benefit while we are sidelined. We ask the president to keep Nyeri in mind as he moves forward.”
Previously, Kahiga had described the move to impeach Gachagua as an affront to the Mt Kenya region and had warned that Ruto’s popularity in the area was waning.
On Friday, Kindiki was sworn in as the third deputy president following the Senate’s decision to uphold Gachagua’s impeachment. Meanwhile, in his first public statement on Saturday, Gachagua assured supporters that he would remain active in politics. He announced plans to consult with local opinion leaders before outlining his future course.
“I am not quitting politics. My political ambitions remain steadfast, and I ask my supporters to be patient. Soon, I will reveal the direction we will take,” Gachagua said.
He added, “Religious leaders, residents, and professionals have reached out, concerned that the region now lacks a spokesperson. I want them to know that I am in discussions with key leaders and will provide clear guidance soon.”
The case challenging Kindiki’s swearing-in will be heard by a three-judge bench on November 7.
Dj Vnyash
