Protests Erupt in Kirinyaga Over Gachagua's Remarks

Kirinyaga County witnessed street protests on Monday, October 13, 2025, as supporters of Governor Anne Waiguru demonstrated against what they termed as disrespectful remarks by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. The demonstrations, held in Kutus and Mwea towns, followed Gachagua's accusations that Governor Waiguru and Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire were being used by President William Ruto to politically divide the Mount Kenya region ahead of the 2027 general election.

Protesters voiced outrage, asserting that Gachagua's comments, made during church services in Kirinyaga and Mbeere North over the weekend, reflected a deep-seated contempt for women in leadership. "This was not just an attack on Governor Waiguru—it was an attack on every hard-working woman in leadership," stated Beth Wanjiru, a protester. Another protester, Rose Mabuti, called for respect for women in politics, urging leaders to prioritise national unity over personal vendettas.

Historical and Political Context of Gender in Kenyan Leadership

The political landscape in Kenya has seen a gradual increase in women's participation, though challenges persist. The 2010 Constitution 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 still lags behind some of its East African counterparts in women's representation in parliament. For instance, in 2017, Rwanda led with 63.8% women in the lower house, while Kenya stood at 21.8%.

Governor Anne Waiguru herself is a notable figure in Kenyan politics, having made history as one of the first three female governors elected in 2017 and the first woman to secure consecutive gubernatorial terms in 2022. She also served as the first female Chairperson of the Council of Governors, a position she was re-elected to in 2023.

Laws, Policy, and Governance on Gender Equality

Kenya has ratified international treaties such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Maputo Protocol, which promote women's rights. Nationally, the Isiolo County Gender Policy 2021-2025, for example, aims to ensure gender mainstreaming across all sectors for equitable socio-economic development. The Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services has also reaffirmed its commitment to advancing equity by reintroducing the gender-mainstreaming indicator into performance contracting guidelines for government agencies.

Stakeholders and Testimonies

The protests in Kirinyaga underscore a broader sentiment among women leaders and their supporters who advocate for respectful political discourse. Protesters accused Gachagua of resorting to divisive politics and personal attacks, rather than constructive leadership, particularly since his impeachment as Deputy President in October 2024. They dismissed his attempts to crown himself as the Mount Kenya political kingpin, arguing that leadership is earned through service and respect, not imposition.

Kiambu Senator Karungo wa Thang'wa also criticised former Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria for advising Gachagua to refrain from insulting women leaders, viewing it as a tactic to divide the Mount Kenya region. Kuria, however, had acknowledged Gachagua's influence while urging for respect towards women leaders.

Evidence and Data

Risks and Implications

The ongoing political tensions, particularly in the Mount Kenya region, could influence public debate and policy execution. Analysts suggest that the need for fiscal consolidation will keep protest activity elevated over 2025, with risks especially pronounced around the 2025 Finance Bill. Furthermore, governance risks remain high due to political tensions. The perceived targeting of women leaders could also discourage future female participation in politics, undermining efforts towards gender equality.

Uncertainties and Controversies

The exact nature and extent of political realignments in the Mount Kenya region remain uncertain. While Gachagua has been consolidating support under the Democracy for the Citizen's Party (DCP), the long-term impact of his remarks on his political standing and regional unity is yet to be seen. There are also ongoing debates about the implementation of the two-thirds gender rule, which has faced challenges in achieving full compliance in elective bodies.

Timeline and Next Steps

• Sunday, October 12, 2025: Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua makes 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 stage street protests in Kutus and Mwea towns, condemning Gachagua's remarks.
• 2025: Political risk in Kenya is expected to remain elevated, with potential for increased protest activity, particularly concerning the 2025 Finance Bill.
• 2027: The next General Election is anticipated, with ongoing political realignments and leadership aspirations shaping the pre-election period.

What to Watch

Observers will be closely watching how political leaders in the Mount Kenya region navigate the emerging power dynamics and whether the calls for respectful political engagement gain traction. The implementation of gender equality policies and the actualisation of the two-thirds gender rule in future elections will also be key indicators of progress in Kenyan politics. The political climate in 2025 is expected to be shaped by ongoing dissent and economic frustrations, as highlighted by various reports.