Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has concluded his Meru tour after listing security, the miraa market and clean water as three non-negotiable priorities for residents.

On Monday, July 27, 2026, Gachagua, using Facebook, outlined the issues after meeting residents of Laare in Igembe North. He said he had listened to their concerns and would prioritise them.

“Your security, market for miraa and provision of clean water remain priorities that are non-negotiable,” Gachagua said.

He also urged residents to reject what he described as deceptive leadership ahead of the 2027 General Election.

“On August 10, 2027, we have a date with destiny,” he added.

The Laare meeting formed part of Gachagua’s grassroots tour of Embu and Meru counties.

The Democracy for the Citizens Party leader announced the tour as part of efforts to engage residents and strengthen his political presence in Mt Kenya East.

Gachagua takes miraa message across Igembe

Before visiting Laare, Gachagua held meetings in Athiru Gaiti Ward in Igembe South and Muringene in Igembe Central.

In Athiru Gaiti, he said residents needed clean water and better markets for their agricultural produce.

He singled out miraa as a major concern for families whose income depends on the crop.

Gachagua accused President William Ruto’s administration of pursuing policies that had hurt residents. He promised that opposition leaders would continue raising their concerns.

At Muringene, Gachagua praised residents for what he described as their determination to support political change.

He said their reception showed growing unity among Kenyans seeking a different government in 2027.

Meru emerges as key 2027 battleground

The tour places Meru at the centre of the contest for Mt Kenya votes.

Gachagua is seeking to retain influence in the region following his political fallout with Ruto. Government-allied leaders are also working to keep Mt Kenya East within the Kenya Kwanza fold.

The former deputy president has rejected attempts to divide Mt Kenya into eastern and western political blocs.

However, Gachagua did not provide timelines, budgets or detailed plans for improving security, water supply and miraa markets.

The three issues are expected to feature prominently as government and opposition leaders compete for Meru voters ahead of the 2027 election.