Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has intensified campaigns to rally the Mt Kenya region behind President William Ruto ahead of the 2027 General Election, urging residents to honour political commitments made during the previous administration.
Speaking during a thanksgiving and homecoming ceremony for Nyeri Woman Representative Rahab Mukami following her election as President of the Pan-African Parliament Women’s Caucus, Waiguru said the region’s political credibility depends on keeping promises made to national leaders.
She referenced the political arrangement associated with former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s tenure, where Mt Kenya leaders pledged support for Ruto after Uhuru’s two terms in office.
“It was clearly stated during the last administration that after Uhuru’s tenure, the region would support President Ruto. We must remain people who keep our word because trust and consistency are important in national politics,” Waiguru said.
Governor Warns Against Political Isolation
The governor cautioned that abandoning earlier commitments could weaken the region’s bargaining power and political influence nationally.
According to Waiguru, maintaining loyalty to political agreements would help the region preserve respect and strategic positioning in future national conversations.
“A promise is like a debt that must be honoured. As a community, we should be known for standing by our commitments because that is how trust is built,” she said.
Her remarks come amid growing political uncertainty in Mt Kenya following the impeachment of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, which has triggered divisions among leaders and voters across the region.
Leaders Seek to Calm Political Tensions
Waiguru acknowledged the unease caused by recent political developments and appealed for unity moving forward.
She urged residents to focus on long-term development and stability instead of internal political disagreements.
Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika echoed the sentiments, saying continued support for President Ruto would help protect the economic and social interests of Mt Kenya residents living and doing business across the country.
Kihika argued that maintaining strong ties with the national government was important for regional inclusion and continued development.
Leaders Cite Development Projects
Nominated Senator Veronica Maina also urged residents to remain supportive of the Kenya Kwanza administration, pointing to ongoing development projects in the region.
She said the government had already initiated infrastructure and economic programmes aimed at improving livelihoods and boosting local economies.
“We should support a government that is already implementing projects and delivering development instead of turning to uncertainty,” Maina said.
The senator further encouraged voters to exercise their democratic rights freely during the 2027 elections and choose leaders without intimidation.
Coast Leaders Join Mt Kenya Event
Taita Taveta Woman Representative Lydia Haika also attended the event and noted that the Mt Kenya region had benefited significantly from government projects under the current administration.
The ceremony attracted several political leaders from across the country, including Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi, Nyeri Senator Wahome Wamatinga, and Bahati MP Irene Njoki.
While the gathering celebrated Rahab Mukami’s continental leadership appointment, it also served as a platform for leaders allied to President Ruto to reinforce political unity and early mobilization efforts ahead of the next General Election.
Early Political Realignments Taking Shape
The renewed calls for unity within Mt Kenya reflect the growing political realignments taking shape ahead of 2027, as parties and leaders position themselves for future alliances and national contests.
Analysts say the region is likely to remain a key battleground in the coming election cycle given its voting strength and influence in national politics.
