Ruto’s Mount Kenya Visit: Development or Political Maneuvering?

BY:Kariuki Monroe

President William Ruto is set to return to Mount Kenya, a region that played a pivotal role in his 2022 election victory.

This visit comes at a sensitive time, following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and amidst rumors of a new political party emerging.

The question on everyone’s mind is whether Ruto’s visit is genuinely about delivering on development promises or if it’s a strategic political move to secure his base ahead of the 2027 elections.

Ruto’s previous visit to Mount Kenya during the election campaigns was marked by promises of economic empowerment and infrastructural development.

However, recent political divisions and Gachagua’s removal have left some supporters feeling marginalized.

The emergence of a potential new party and internal divisions have heightened tensions, making Ruto’s visit seem like an attempt to calm these waters and solidify his position.

In preparation for the visit, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Gachagua’s replacement, has been meeting with over 50 Members of Parliament from the region.

They have discussed upcoming projects and the President’s itinerary, hinting at plans to revive long-stalled development initiatives.

The focus on budget allocations and project launches suggests a commitment to growth, but critics argue that such actions conveniently align with political necessities.

Critics claim that Ruto is using development as a cover to mend fractured alliances and win back the trust of Mount Kenya voters.

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on Monday, March 17, made a startling revelation on alleged demands made by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to President William Ruto before they signed a Memorandum of Understanding.

Speaking during an exclusive interview with Kameme FM, Gachagua claimed that Odinga had come up with demands, including more Cabinet Secretary and Principal Secretary positions for Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party members.

“For Raila to support the President, he demanded six cabinet positions just the way we had asked for eight positions in exchange for our votes because that is how a government operates,” Gachagua revealed.

In a more damning revelation, Gachagua claimed that bigger changes were imminent as the process of restructuring the principal secretary positions had already kicked off.

On the other hand, his supporters insist that the visit is purely about delivering on promises and ensuring growth for the region.