Gachagua accuses Ruto of using strategy employed by Moi to divide Mt Kenya vote

George Kariuki, the Member of Parliament for Ndia Constituency in Mt Kenya, has defended the principle of multi-party democracy in the region, rebuking former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's call for political consolidation. Kariuki made these remarks at his home in Ndia Constituency on Sunday, August 23, 2026, as over 500 grassroots leaders from Thika Constituency in Kiambu County endorsed him for a more prominent national leadership role.

The endorsement, led by East African Legislative Assembly MP Maina Karobia, came during a political consultation meeting at Kariuki's residence in Ndia Constituency, Kirinyaga County.

Kariuki emphasized that voters should have the freedom to choose their preferred political parties and leaders, cautioning against equating political unity with forcing the region into a single party. He accused Gachagua and certain Kiambu leaders of attempting to fragment the region through political and administrative divisions, arguing that such efforts would weaken Mt Kenya's bargaining power at the national level.

Kariuki highlighted the importance of political diversity and unity, stating that a region can have multiple parties and still remain united by focusing on common interests rather than forcing everyone into a single political party. He warned against creating artificial divisions among the people, asserting that Mt Kenya's strength lies in its large voter population, economic contribution, and collective bargaining power.

The endorsement of Kariuki by the grassroots leaders underscores their belief that he is capable of representing the Mountain while uniting its people and advancing its interests at the national level. Kariuki expressed his readiness to assume greater political responsibility, pledging to prioritize peace, development, and opportunities for the younger generation, as well as ensuring that Mt Kenya maintains its position in national leadership.