Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has fired back at Rigathi Gachagua following past remarks claiming that Mwea Rice farmers are crying due to lack of market.

Taking to her official X account on Monday, February 2, 2026, Waiguru took on Gachagua, clarifying on the state of Mwea rice products and farmers.

According to Waiguru all Mwea rice products has been taken up by the National Government, and that all rice in the stores have been cleared hence securing farmers incomes.

“I usually do not respond to petty allegations, recognising that not every provocation deserves the dignity of response, but on this one, allow me to bring to the attention of @rigathi that we have no issue with Mwea rice and to clarify that the National Government has already uptaken all rice in our stores, securing our farmers’ incomes,” Waiguru said.

She went on to explain that Kirinyaga leaders have decided on which side they are on, for the benefit of their people.

“These sort of interventions are what true leaders engage in, the rest we leave to activists. As for pocketing leaders: Kirinyaga leaders have made a determination on which side they are, for the benefit of their people. Come and see just a few of our achievements,” Waiguru said.

She further explained that Kirinyaga’s collaboration with the National Government has helped them improve the welfare of Kirinyaga people

“Our collaboration with the National Government has helped us improve the welfare of our people. Huku ni kazi huongea, and voters will vote based on performance,” Waiguru added.

On her part,Waiguru has maintained that she will not be joining the Opposition’s side.

“As I said, 𝗪𝗮𝗺𝘂𝗻𝘆𝗼𝗿𝗼 𝘀𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗶, because I cannot see how that is going to assist Kirinyaga people,” she explained.

Waiguru’s warning to leaders

This comes days after Waiguru cautioned leaders and residents of the Mt Kenya region to exercise caution amid emerging political realignments, warning against being pushed out of government without a clear alternative path.

This comes even as President William Ruto is keen to reclaim his 2022 turf, as the opposition led by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua maintains that they will make it slippery to stop his reelection bid.

Speaking on Friday, January 23, 2026, at Kutus during a meeting with just elected grassroots UDA leaders in Kirinyaga, Waiguru said Mt Kenya must not be misled into abandoning the Kenya Kwanza government without being told where the region is headed politically.

“No one should tell us to get out of government without clearly explaining where we are going. Mt Kenya must be strategic and deliberate in its political decisions.” Waiguru said.