Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has publicly endorsed Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji as his preferred candidate for the Embu gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Election under the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) while launching a sharp attack on Governor Cecily Mbarire’s leadership.

Speaking during a public engagement in Gategi Market, Mbeere South in Embu County, on Saturday, July 25, 2026, Gachagua accused Governor Mbarire of neglecting residents and prioritising President William Ruto’s political interests over service delivery.

According to Gachagua, the Embu governor has focused more on accompanying President Ruto and participating in political campaigns than addressing the county’s development needs.

“Governor Mbarire, you have neglected the people of Embu, and your work is to follow President Ruto in UDA. The other day you were camping in Ol Kalou during the by-elections together with Governor Ann Waiguru using the people’s money in campaigns instead of working for them,” Gachagua said.

Gachagua backs Gitonga Mukunji

The former Deputy President urged Embu residents to rally behind Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, describing him as a youthful and capable leader who has demonstrated effective leadership through his parliamentary work.

“I want to ask the people of Embu to elect a young man who will work for the people. I want to ask you to consider electing this young man called Gitonga Mukunji. I have looked at his work as the MP for Manyatta and have seen he is capable,” he said.

Gachagua’s endorsement is expected to strengthen speculation that Mukunji could mount a gubernatorial bid in 2027 under the DCP banner as the opposition seeks to expand its influence in the Mt Kenya East region.

DCP to hold open nominations

Despite endorsing Mukunji, Gachagua emphasised that the Democracy for the Citizens Party would conduct transparent and competitive nominations before settling on its candidates for the 2027 elections.

“I want to assure the people of Embu that we shall have open nominations in our DCP party so that we can get a better candidate,” he stated.

The remarks come as political activity intensifies across the Mt Kenya region, with parties positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general election. Embu is expected to be among the closely watched gubernatorial contests, with Governor Mbarire likely to seek a second term while facing mounting opposition from leaders aligned with Gachagua’s DCP.