Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya has shattered weeks of speculation regarding his political allegiance, declaring an uncompromising war on the Kenya Kwanza administration during a fiery address in Meru County on Sunday.

The Party of National Unity (PNU) leader’s declaration comes at a pivotal moment for Mount Kenya politics, effectively drawing a line in the sand against President William Ruto’s overtures to the region and deepening the rift within local leadership. Munya, who has been relatively quiet since the 2022 elections, emerged to dispel rumors that he was eyeing a state appointment in the so-called 'broad-based' government.

The 'One Term' Agenda

Speaking to a charged crowd, Munya aligned himself with what he termed the "Wantam Movement"—a colloquial reference to a push to make President Ruto a one-term leader. He accused the current administration of failing to protect the welfare of the ordinary mwananchi, citing the skyrocketing cost of living and broken promises.

"We do not speak out of fear," Munya asserted, his voice cutting through the cheers. "It is the Constitution of Kenya that determines whether we vote for a candidate or withhold our vote. We are firmly in the opposition."

The former Governor dismantled the government's economic narrative, contrasting the administration's multi-trillion shilling development pledges with the harsh reality on the ground. With fuel prices in Nairobi hovering around KES 184.52 per litre and the cost of basic commodities straining household budgets, Munya argued that the government is "living in a fantasy" while Kenyans suffer.

• Cost of Living: Munya highlighted the disparity between government assurances and the price of unga and fuel.
• Marginalization: He claimed the region is being sidelined despite high taxation.
• Integrity: He vowed to restore order and accountability in Meru's leadership.

A Mountain Divided

Munya’s resurgence complicates the political arithmetic for President Ruto in the Mount Kenya East region. His stance places him on a direct collision course with other regional heavyweights, including Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, who have pledged loyalty to the government.

While Ruku and Mbarire have threatened to split the mountain politically to protect their interests, Munya is rallying the base against what he calls "political auctioneering." Analysts suggest Munya is positioning himself as the alternative center of power in Meru, capitalizing on the dissatisfaction with the current county and national leadership.

2027 Calculations

Addressing his own political future, Munya was categorical: he is not for sale. He dismissed reports linking him to a Cabinet position as "baseless propaganda" meant to confuse his supporters.

"I want to make it very clear that I am not looking for any other job," he emphasized. "The only job I am seeking is Governor of Meru in 2027. I do not have the time or luxury to serve in a government that has failed its people."

As the crowds dispersed, the message was clear: the battle for the soul of Mount Kenya is far from over. Munya’s return signals a turbulent political season ahead, where economic grievances will likely be the primary weapon against the incumbent administration.