Demand Issued for CS Ruku's Dismissal Over Controversial Remarks

A group of political leaders from the Mt Kenya region have called for the immediate dismissal of Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku, accusing him of making remarks that they say could fuel division within the region.

The leaders, most of them from Embu County and allied to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accused the CS of repeatedly engaging in inflammatory politics instead of focusing on his government duties.

They claimed Ruku’s statements risk deepening political and social tensions in Mt Kenya, a region that has historically remained united despite political differences.

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, the politicians urged President William Ruto to take firm action, saying continued silence could undermine efforts to promote unity and cohesion across the country.

“If the President is serious about national unity, then he must act decisively and remove CS Ruku from office,” one of the leaders said.

“His remarks are unnecessary and only serve to divide the Mt Kenya people.”

The leaders alleged that Ruku’s comments were aimed at creating hostility between Mt Kenya East and Mt Kenya West, two blocs that have coexisted peacefully for decades.

According to them, the CS has developed a pattern of making statements that target sections of the region for political gain.

They further argued that such remarks contradict the President’s message of inclusivity and unity, especially at a time when the country is facing economic and social challenges.

“Instead of addressing real issues such as the crisis in public hospitals and service delivery, the CS has chosen to engage in divisive politics,” another politician said.

During the press briefing, the leaders also criticised the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), accusing the body of applying double standards when dealing with cases of alleged hate speech.

They claimed that while some leaders are quickly summoned or investigated, others appear to enjoy protection despite making controversial remarks in public.

“The NCIC must be fair and consistent,” one leader said.

“Selective justice only worsens divisions and erodes public confidence in national institutions.”

The calls for Ruku’s removal came a day after the CS launched a sharp attack on former Deputy President Gachagua during a public event in Baringo County.

Speaking at a goat auction on Monday, Ruku accused Gachagua of stirring political tension within Mt Kenya and spreading hostility towards the government.

Ruku dismissed claims that Gachagua remains the undisputed political kingpin of the region, arguing that recent electoral outcomes tell a different story.

“There is a politician in Mt Kenya who specialises in inciting people against the government,” Ruku said.

“But when he had the opportunity to prove his influence during the Mbeere North by-election, he failed.”

The CS cited the by-election results as evidence that political loyalty in the region is changing and that no single individual can claim ownership of Mt Kenya voters.

The exchange has highlighted growing political tensions within Mt Kenya as leaders position themselves ahead of future elections.

Analysts say the region is undergoing a major political transition, with competing voices seeking to shape its direction.

Some observers warn that continued public exchanges between senior leaders could polarise communities and distract from pressing governance issues.

“Mt Kenya politics is clearly evolving,” said a Nairobi-based political analyst.

“What is needed now is sober leadership, not public confrontations that inflame emotions.”