President William Ruto has defended his engagement with Mt Kenya residents, saying he will continue to visit and speak to people across the region without seeking approval from any individual or political group.

He made the remarks during the funeral service of the late Olkalau MP David Njugua in Nyandarua County on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, where leaders and residents had gathered to pay their last respects.

Ruto told mourners that he understands the support he received from Mt Kenya voters and dismissed claims that he needs permission to engage with them, insisting that his relationship with the region is long-standing and built on trust.

“Mimi naelewa nilipigiwa kura na watu wa mlima, mimi sio mlevi na mimi sio mjinga, I know what am doing, mimi nilitengezeza urafiki ya siku mingi na watu wa mlima Kenya, mtu asiniletee vita yake na watu wa mlima Kenya,” he said.

The president added that he is aware of how he works with the residents of Mt Kenya, stating that as the president of the republic, he will be going everywhere and perform his duties as the president without seeking anyone’s approval.

I know how to work with the people of Mt Kenya. Mimi siombewi ruhusa mahali popote Kenya, i am the president, and I will go everywhere, and I will do everything as the president of the Republic of Kenya. I am not going to ask permission from anybody, whoever you are,” he stated.

He further assured residents of Nyandarua that his administration will protect their interests and ensure development projects are delivered without interference from any quarters.

“Mimi nitahakikisha haki ya watu wa Nyandarua haitabebwa na mtu yeyote, tutafanya maendeleo hapa ipasavyo,” he stated.

Ruto and Gachagua meet face to face at requiem mass of late Ol Kalou MP

President William Ruto and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua came face to face at the Requiem Mass of the late Ol Kalou MP David Kiaraho on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.

Gachagua was accompanied by his brigades led by Nyandarua Senator John Methu.

Battle for Mt Kenya

Gachagua is crafting a calculated political strategy to consolidate control of the Mt Kenya voting bloc, even as the political landscape shifts ahead of the 2027 polls.

Gachagua’s approach blends hardline rhetoric with strategic outreach, as he seeks to position himself as the undisputed voice of the region.

In recent months, he has repeatedly branded those outside his camp as enemies of the mountain or traitors, promising to politically isolate them.

At the same time, he has adopted a softer tone when engaging former critics, embracing what he calls a gather all, scatter none philosophy.

“I have urged them to work hard to be elected. All traitors of the Kenyan people and our community who are helping William Ruto persecute our people must be voted out without fear or favour,” he said.