Kirinyaga

Governor Waiguru Urges Mt Kenya to Uphold ‘Kumi Ya Ruto’ Deal for Political Survival

Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has called on the Mt Kenya community to maintain political unity and uphold past agreements, warning that failure to do so could erode the region’s influence in national politics.

Speaking on Saturday during the commissioning of the maternity wing at Mutithi Health Centre in Mwea, Governor Waiguru emphasized that the region’s political relevance and bargaining power depend on its ability to honor commitments and present a united front.

Honoring the “Kumi Kumi” Pact

The governor invoked the political arrangement made during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration, commonly referred to as “Yangu kumi, ya Ruto kumi” (My ten, Ruto’s ten), arguing that Mt Kenya’s credibility in national politics hinges on keeping its word.

“Uhuru himself said ‘yangu kumi, ya Ruto kumi’. As Mt Kenya, we must honor our promise. Politics is about trust, and once you break trust, no one takes you seriously again,” Governor Waiguru stated.

She cautioned that despite the region’s substantial voting population, Mt Kenya cannot form a government independently without strategic alliances, warning that political betrayal and internal divisions could lead to the community’s isolation on the national stage.

“We may have the numbers, but numbers alone cannot build a government. If Mt Kenya becomes known for breaking agreements, other communities will simply walk away from us,” she noted.

Criticism of Regional Leadership

In pointed remarks widely interpreted as targeting former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Governor Waiguru suggested that his impeachment had significantly diminished his political standing and capacity to effectively represent regional interests.

“Leadership is about direction and credibility. You cannot lead people when you have lost both. Mt Kenya must be careful not to follow leaders who have no clear political path,” she said.

The governor urged residents to remain supportive of the current administration even during challenging times, using a metaphor to illustrate her point.

“You do not abandon the house you built simply because it is raining. You stay, fix the roof, and move forward together,” Waiguru told attendees.

Political Realignment in Mt Kenya

Governor Waiguru’s remarks come amid intensifying political maneuvering within the Mt Kenya region as leaders position themselves ahead of future electoral contests, with loyalty to President William Ruto emerging as a key fault line.

Kirinyaga Central Member of Parliament Gachoki Gitari offered strong support for the governor, praising her national profile and development achievements while suggesting her growing influence has unsettled some political figures.

“I have been following your work closely, and the results speak for themselves. Many second-term governors relax and wait for their term to end, but you have continued to deliver,” Mr. Gitari said.

He claimed that Governor Waiguru’s rising prominence at the national level has made some leaders uncomfortable.

“Now that you are a true daughter of the mountain, you are making some men sleepless. They feel threatened because they know you can be picked as Deputy President,” the MP added.

The statements signal continued political fragmentation in Mt Kenya as various leaders stake out positions on regional unity, national alliances, and future leadership prospects.