Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has strongly defended Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, praising their leadership and condemning what he termed as "primitive, prideful and know-it-all political bigotry" from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

In a statement released on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, Kindiki lauded the two governors for their "exemplary and successful political leadership," highlighting their extensive experience in public administration and politics. He asserted that they have "outpaced the naive, arrogant novices trying to bully them into submission."

Historical and Political Context

Kindiki's remarks come days after Gachagua, speaking at a rally in Kirinyaga County, 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, dismissing demonstrations held in defence of Waiguru and Mbarire.

This public exchange underscores an escalating political rivalry within the Mt. Kenya region, particularly between Kindiki and Gachagua. The feud has been simmering, with Gachagua previously accusing Kindiki of undermining his influence and using state funds for early campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections.

Both Governors Waiguru and Mbarire have significant political careers. Governor Waiguru is currently serving her second term as Kirinyaga Governor and has also chaired the Council of Governors. Governor Mbarire, the current Governor of Embu County, has over 20 years of experience in politics, including serving as a nominated MP and representing Runyenjes Constituency in the National Assembly.

Laws, Policy, and Governance

The political discourse surrounding women in leadership in Kenya has seen gradual progress, though challenges persist. The Kenyan Constitution of 2010 introduced a two-thirds gender rule, aiming to ensure that not more than two-thirds of members of elective public bodies are of the same gender. Despite this, Kenya has historically lagged behind some of its East African counterparts in women's representation in parliament.

In the 2022 general elections, Kenya saw a record seven women elected to gubernatorial positions, including Governors Waiguru and Mbarire, signalling an improvement in women's participation in leadership. However, prescribed gender roles, patriarchal attitudes, and structural barriers continue to disadvantage women in politics.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

Supporters of Governor Waiguru staged protests in Kutus and Mwea towns on Monday, October 13, 2025, condemning Gachagua's remarks as disrespectful and demeaning to women in leadership. Protesters argued that such comments reflect a deep-seated contempt for women and that leadership is earned through service and respect, not imposition.

Kisumu West Member of Parliament Rosa Buyu also criticised Gachagua's attacks on women leaders, stating that it was ironic for him to claim respect for his wife while slighting other women in leadership. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku also condemned what he described as "insult-filled, hostile, and deceptive utterances" from leaders allied to the United Opposition.

Evidence and Data

• 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.
• Kindiki's Statement: Issued on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, praising Governors Waiguru and Mbarire.
• Gachagua's Remarks: Made during a rally in Kirinyaga County, accusing Waiguru and Kirinyaga MPs of betraying the Mt. Kenya community.

Risks and Implications

The escalating political tensions, particularly within the Mt. Kenya region, could have implications for national unity and political stability as Kenya approaches the 2027 general elections. The use of divisive rhetoric and personal attacks, rather than policy-driven engagement, poses a risk to democratic discourse.

Unknowns and Controversies

The full extent of the political realignment within the Mt. Kenya region and its potential impact on the 2027 elections remains uncertain. Allegations of leaders being used to divide the region, as claimed by Gachagua, contribute to political uncertainty.

Timeline and Next Steps

• Sunday, October 12, 2025: Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua made remarks in Kirinyaga and Mbeere North, accusing Governors Waiguru and Mbarire of being used to divide the Mount Kenya region.
• Monday, October 13, 2025: Supporters of Governor Anne Waiguru staged street protests in Kutus and Mwea towns, condemning Gachagua's remarks.
• Tuesday, October 14, 2025: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki issued a statement defending Governors Waiguru and Mbarire.

What to Watch

Observers will be closely watching the evolving political dynamics within the Mt. Kenya region, particularly the interactions between Deputy President Kindiki and former Deputy President Gachagua. The nature of political campaigns and the adherence to respectful discourse in the lead-up to the 2027 elections will be key areas of focus.