Deputy President Kithure Kindiki on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, publicly defended Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire against what he termed as 'primitive, prideful and know-it-all political bigotry' from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. Kindiki lauded the two governors as exemplary and successful political leaders who have brought pride to the country through their accomplishments in public administration and politics.

Kindiki's strong statement follows Gachagua's remarks during a rally in Kirinyaga County on Monday, October 13, 2025, where he reportedly labelled Governor Waiguru and several Kirinyaga Members of Parliament as 'enemies of the Mt. Kenya community.' Gachagua accused them of betraying the region and aligning with President William Ruto, while also dismissing demonstrations held in defence of Waiguru and Mbarire.

Historical and Political Context

This public exchange underscores an escalating political rivalry within the Mt. Kenya region. Gachagua's comments have been perceived as a direct attack on Governor Waiguru, who is rumoured to be forming a political party ahead of the 2027 general election. Protests erupted in Kirinyaga County on Monday, October 13, 2025, with residents condemning Gachagua's remarks as disrespectful and demeaning to women in leadership.

Governor Anne Waiguru, serving her second term as Kirinyaga Governor, has also chaired the Council of Governors (CoG), becoming the first woman to hold this position. Governor Cecily Mbarire is the current Governor of Embu County and also serves as the Chairperson of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party. Both have extensive experience in public service and politics, having held various senior positions.

Laws, Policy and Governance

Kindiki emphasised that democracy in 21st-century Kenya should be built on persuasion, mutual respect, and the canvassing of policy alternatives, rather than 'useless, dangerous ethnic chauvinism' that pits sections of the country against each other. This aligns with calls for a shift in Kenya's political culture towards more mature and issue-based politics.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

Residents of Kirinyaga, during their protests, accused Gachagua of targeting successful women leaders and fueling division. They highlighted Governor Waiguru's track record in transforming Kirinyaga, citing modern markets, thriving towns, and a world-class referral hospital as evidence of her performance. Kisumu West Member of Parliament Rosa Buyu also cautioned Gachagua to cease his attacks on women leaders, stating that such remarks are ironic given his claims of respecting his wife.

Evidence/Data Box

• Kindiki's Statement: Issued on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, praising Governors Waiguru and Mbarire and condemning Gachagua's remarks.
• Gachagua's Remarks: Made during a rally in Kirinyaga County on Monday, October 13, 2025, accusing Waiguru and Kirinyaga MPs of betraying the Mt. Kenya community.
• Women Governors in 2022: Seven women were elected as governors in the 2022 Kenyan general elections, more than doubling the three elected in 2017.
• Women in Parliament (2022): 26 women were elected as Members of Parliament in 2022, up from 23 in 2017.
• Women Representation in National Assembly: Overall, women's representation in the National Assembly has risen by 40% in the last 20 years.

Risks and Implications

The ongoing political tension and divisive rhetoric, particularly within the Mt. Kenya region, pose a risk to national unity and progress. Kindiki warned that such political posturing is 'doomed to fail' and that it cannot be about 'useless, dangerous ethnic chauvinism that recklessly pits sections of our country against the others.'

Unknowns and Controversies

While Gachagua accused Waiguru of plotting to create a new political party, Waiguru has not publicly confirmed these plans. The full extent of the political ramifications of this escalating rivalry within the Mt. Kenya region, especially concerning the 2027 elections, remains to be seen.

Timeline and Next Steps

• Monday, October 13, 2025: Protests erupted in Kirinyaga County following Gachagua's remarks.
• Tuesday, October 14, 2025: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki issued a statement condemning Gachagua's remarks.
• Ongoing: Political leaders are urged to embrace civility and tolerance, focusing on persuasion and mutual respect.

What to Watch

Observers will be closely watching how this political rivalry within the Mt. Kenya region develops, particularly its impact on the unity of the ruling party and the broader political landscape as the 2027 general election approaches. The discourse surrounding women in leadership and the emphasis on issue-based politics will also be key areas of focus.