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Political analyst Herman Manyora has warned that Gathoni Wamuchomba risks undermining her chances in the 2027 Kiambu gubernatorial race by publicly criticizing Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, potentially alienating influential backers and eroding support within her base.
Kiambu, Kenya — September 27, 2025 (EAT).
Political analyst Herman Manyora has warned that Gathoni Wamuchomba risks undermining her chances in the 2027 Kiambu gubernatorial race by publicly criticizing Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, potentially alienating influential backers and eroding support within her base.
During a recent commentary, Manyora noted that Wamuchomba’s statements targeting Gachagua—who retains significant influence within Kenya Kwanza politics—are politically risky. Sometimes viewed as a rising figure in opposition aligned politics, Wamuchomba’s move could be seen as overreach, threatening alliances she may need.
Manyora said:
“Attacking Gachagua — who remains politically powerful and well connected — is a miscalculation. She could isolate herself from critical networks and diminish her appeal in Kiambu.”
Gathoni Wamuchomba, MP for Githunguri, has been linked with emerging opposition movements even as she navigates local dynamics in Kiambu County.
Rigathi Gachagua, as Deputy President and a central figure in Kenya Kwanza, still wields influence over political alignments, appointments, and party networks.
Kiambu politics has historically been sensitive to alliances with national power blocs, and gubernatorial hopefuls often hinge success on tacit or explicit backing from national level leaders.
Support linkages: Wamuchomba may need access to party machinery, resource deployment, or endorsements that Gachagua-aligned actors control.
Signal effect: Public criticism could send negative signals to undecided voters or party insiders about her ability to cooperate and build consensus.
Polarization risk: She could become pigeonholed as antagonistic, reducing her ability to attract moderate or cross-party votes.
Political capital loss: If her critique is viewed as too confrontational, she might lose negotiating leverage in negotiations or alliances.
Whether Wamuchomba clarifies or softens her comments regarding Gachagua.
Reactions from Kenya Kwanza and UDA officials in Kiambu.
Shifts in endorsements or support among local leaders once aligned with her or with Gachagua.
Her messaging and campaign strategy: whether she pivots to a more inclusive tone or doubles down.
