Blow to Gachagua as New Mt Kenya Kingpin is Declared

A section of UDA youth leaders has sparked debate in the Mt Kenya region by endorsing Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as the area’s political leader, while criticizing former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for presenting himself as the region’s kingpin.

The youth leaders said the recent Mbeere North by-election was more than a local poll—it reflected the people’s choice for leadership in Mt Kenya.

They argued that the election results clearly showed who the region trusts to guide its political future.

Leonard Wa Muthende, backed by Kindiki, won the Mbeere North seat, defeating Gachagua’s preferred candidate, Newton Karish.

The youth leaders described this as a strong signal of public support for Kindiki, saying it demonstrated his unifying and decisive leadership.

Peterson Merichi, chairman of the UDA youth league, said:

“The people of Mt Kenya have shown who they trust to lead. Anyone claiming to be kingpin without the people’s mandate is misleading the public.”

The group praised Kindiki for staying focused on the issues during the campaign, avoiding insults and distractions despite opposition tactics.

They said this approach helped maintain unity and confidence among voters.

In a related development, Kindiki hosted 60 Kenya Kwanza MPs from across Mt Kenya to celebrate the UDA victory in Mbeere North.

He thanked them for their teamwork and dedication, emphasizing the importance of collaborative leadership.

The youth leaders also called for unity across Mt Kenya, encouraging all political aspirants to respect the people’s voice and work together for the region’s development.

They urged politicians to stop posturing and focus on meaningful leadership that benefits residents.