Nyoro-Gachagua tiff: Where it started and what we know so far

The feud between former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has resurfaced, stemming from a long-standing political rivalry rooted in the 2022 succession debate and the race for influence in Mt Kenya. During his time in the United States, Gachagua accused a rival of receiving KSh200 million to create a vehicle aimed at splitting the Mt Kenya vote.

However, the accusations were directed at Nyoro, who had recently assumed leadership of the People’s Party of Kenya and positioned himself as an independent opposition figure.

Nyoro responded harshly on September 7, 2026, cautioning political leaders against using others to target him and asserting that his party would not require permission to operate. The origins of this rivalry can be traced back to the search for William Ruto's running mate prior to the 2022 General Election. Nyoro was among the names under consideration before Ruto ultimately selected Gachagua.

Notably, Gachagua had previously endorsed Nyoro for a higher political position, acknowledging his experience and ability to serve the nation.

Following the election, Nyoro's rising profile ignited discussions about possible supremacy struggles between Gachagua and Nyoro. By February 2023, reports suggested a potential rivalry had formed. Gachagua, however, dismissed the rivalry, claiming that younger leaders would eventually assume leadership roles. In early 2024, some Mt Kenya leaders openly endorsed Nyoro as a potential replacement for Gachagua as Ruto's running mate.

From a neuroscience standpoint, political trust is influenced by factors such as perceived competition, threat, and uncertainty. Leaders are likely to exercise caution around allies who possess an independent power base, national visibility, and a pathway to the same office. This dynamic could shed light on why Gachagua might remain wary of Nyoro, even if they were to join the same political party, including Gachagua's Democratic Coalition Party (DCP).

Nyoro's youth, national recognition, and strong network, coupled with his new party providing him with an independent platform in Mt Kenya, create a status threat. The possibility exists that an ally could evolve into a rival.

The history of succession speculation further complicates the relationship between Gachagua and Nyoro. Nyoro was considered for the position of Ruto's running mate during the 2022 General Election, and later leaders pushed for him as a potential successor to Gachagua. The repeated speculation surrounding succession can make political relationships unpredictable.

For Gachagua, the issue may not solely hinge on Nyoro joining his camp but rather whether he would enter as a loyal lieutenant or maintain an independent power center.