Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has thrown a sharp jibe at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, defending Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire and Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru against his recent attacks.

Through a message posted on his social media accounts on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, Kindiki began by praising the two leaders for what he described as distinguished and patriotic service to the country.

“Governors Anne Waiguru and Cecily Mbarire have done our country proud as exemplary and successful political leaders,” Kindiki said.

“The two have variously held senior positions in public administration and politics, outpacing the naive, arrogant novices trying to bully them into submission.”

Also watch: Governor Waiguru asks Mt. Kenya to reject politics of deception.

Kindiki defends women governors

Kindiki’s comments came just days after former Gachagua labelled Waiguru and several Kirinyaga MPs as “enemies of the Mt Kenya community,” accusing them of betraying the region and siding with President William Ruto.

Gachagua, speaking at a rally in Kirinyaga County, accused the leaders of selling out their community and dismissed demonstrations held in defence of Waiguru and Mbarire.

“Wewe governor and MPs ya Kirinyaga, nyinyi ndiyo adui kubwa ya watu wa Mwea na Kirinyaga. You are the enemies of Kirinyaga and our people,” Gachagua said.

Also watch: Embu women rally behind Governor Mbarire amid claims of sabotage within UDA ranks.

The remarks triggered backlash from political leaders and gender equality advocates who accused the former DP of fuelling divisive and misogynistic politics.

In response, Kindiki strongly condemned what he termed “primitive and prideful political bigotry.”

“This primitive, prideful and know-it-all political misadventure will collapse on its head; it is a matter of time. In 21st-century Kenya, democracy has to be about persuasion, respect for one another, and canvassing policy alternatives,” Kindiki said.

A call for unity and respect

Kindiki said the ongoing political tension in the Mt. Kenya region was unnecessary and dangerous, adding that divisive politics weakens the country’s unity and progress.

“It cannot be about useless, dangerous ethnic chauvinism that recklessly pits sections of our country against others,” the Deputy President said. “Respect the people and their leaders.”

He further praised Waiguru and Mbarire for their experience in governance, saying they represent the best of women’s leadership in Kenya.

The statement has also sparked wide discussion online, with many Kenyans applauding the Deputy President for standing up for women in leadership and calling for mature, issue-based politics.