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Recently, leaders of the Mt Kenya East region officially endorsed Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki as their political leader. The move has sparked political confusion in the wider Central region. Kindiki’s endorsement establishes him as a prominent figure in the Mt Kenya East region, directly challenging the long-held influence of Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who has been considered the region’s political leader.

This development represents a notable transformation in the region’s political landscape, signifying a significant shift in the dynamics of regional politics.

If Kindiki solidifies this position as the political leader of Mt Kenya East, the region will experience political realignments. The DP may face challenges in maintaining his stronghold in the area. This endorsement not only signifies a shift in loyal leadership but also hints at potential changes in political alliances and strategies in the region.

The big question is who is benefiting from this new political power play? Was Gachagua growing too strong for his opponents in the government? Or did he engage in succession politics too early? What does this portend for the region at large? The coming months will determine how this new leadership dynamic plays out and its impact on the broader political landscape.

Once upon a time, in the Kingdom of Qi, there were three fearless generals whose prosperity and abilities led to many victories. Their growing power and popularity eventually threatened the king, who, for political reasons, could not reprimand them in public.

To eliminate this threat, the king organised a deceit. He sent two gift boxes anonymously to the generals with a note that read, “The one who has performed the greatest deeds may take a gift.” The generals started to argue and boast about their heroic deeds. Two generals grabbed a gift box each, leaving the third without a gift. Infuriated, the third general reprimanded the other two, who soon became ashamed of their hastiness and pursuit of fame. Unable to bear the disgrace, they resigned and lost the public’s favour. Seeing this, the third general also stepped down as a show of honour. The king had achieved what he could not have done in an open confrontation.

Are Gachagua, Kindiki, Ndindi Nyoro, Moses Kuria the generals? You be the judge. On the flip side, there is a Swahili adage that says ‘Mziba wa kujitakia haina kilio! Is the elevation of Kindiki the work of Gachagua?

A divided Mt Kenya region may create an opportunity for President Ruto’s re-election. Ruto’s popularity may be waning in the mountain, but to counter the fall, Raila’s Lake will fill the rift for the top seat. This will be a political checkmate to the dwindling support of the mountain.

Politics is a game of perception, the landscape is swinging, and alliances can change. As the Mt Kenya region remains divided, Ruto must strategise carefully to maintain his hold on his popularity. Raila’s support in the Lake region may also face challenges, requiring him to solidify his base and expand his reach.

Non-local political entities are exploiting the disunity in the mountain region to manipulate national policies and influence political outcomes in their favour. Failure to address these internal divisions promptly will ultimately condemn the Mt Kenya region for the political cold.

To fortify his position in the Mt Kenya region, Gachagua ought to play dumb in politics. That is how Daniel arap Moi took power. Do not outshine your master, you will never win. The DP must resist the urge to surpass his master by navigating the political terrain with humility and prudence.

Addressing internal conflicts and promoting harmony among influential local leaders must be Gachagua’s top priorities. His emphasis on urgent economic matters will enable him to win over more people and quell opposition in the area. In politics, don’t be so truthful, to woe a lady, you marinate a few truths with lies!

— The writer is an Innovations Evangelist and a PhD Candidate; [email protected]