The tensions between the two leaders surfaced after both pitched camp in the constituency to support different candidates.
According to several political observers, the heated exchanges resemble earlier power struggles that have shaped national politics—something many local journalists, including myself, have previously reported on in similar stories across Mt Kenya East.
On Tuesday, November 18, Kindiki toured several parts of Mbeere North, urging residents to stand firm with the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate, Leonard Muriuki Wamuthende Leo.
He said Leo understands local needs and is better positioned to complete ongoing development projects.
Residents who turned up for the rallies said the by-election has attracted unusual attention, with top politicians arriving daily to sway voters.
During one of the stopovers, Kindiki directly responded to Gachagua’s recent remarks, which accused some leaders within government of betrayal.
The Deputy President did not mince his words.
“Leave me alone — I will shame you,” he said, insisting he would not allow anyone to mislead Mbeere North voters or turn the campaign into a platform for insults.
Kindiki claimed that Gachagua, who is supporting Democratic Party of Kenya candidate Newton Karish, was now trying to lecture residents after failing to deliver when he held high office.
He stressed that the era of intimidation and chest-thumping leadership was over.
“You did nothing when you were in office. Now you come here shouting at elected Embu leaders? This is disrespectful,” Kindiki said.
“The people of Embu know their problems, and they know who has been walking with them.”
Local leaders accompanying Kindiki echoed the same sentiments, saying the campaign should focus on development, not personality fights.
They stated that past divisions had slowed progress in the area and warned voters against being drawn into political grudges.
Kindiki further accused opposition elements of planning to cause chaos ahead of the November 27 mini-poll.
He warned that the government would not tolerate attempts to provoke violence or disrupt the peaceful campaigns that residents are used to.
“We cannot allow a few individuals to sponsor goons to divide Embu and Mbeere North,” he said.
“People here live peacefully. The challenges facing Mt Kenya East require unity, not unnecessary conflicts.”
Community elders present at the rallies said the constituency has always preferred issue-based politics.
They encouraged all candidates and their supporters to run clean campaigns, free from threats or incitement.
Political analysts say the by-election has turned into a test of influence between leaders seeking to shape their relevance ahead of 2027.
Many believe the sharp exchanges between Kindiki and Gachagua reveal deeper power realignments emerging in the mountain region.
Despite the tension, residents continue to express hope that the by-election will end peacefully and bring in a leader who can amplify their voice at the national level.
Some voters in markets and shopping centres told me that they expect a smooth vote because they are used to resolving differences through dialogue.
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