President William Ruto’s much-anticipated trip to Mt. Kenya hangs in the balance as internal rifts within his camp threaten to derail the visit. With factions clashing over the timing and political implications, uncertainty looms over whether the President will proceed with his tour.

Some of Ruto’s closest advisors warn that stepping into the region now could backfire, given recent political turmoil—including the ousting of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s allies from key parliamentary committees. Adding fuel to the fire, the President’s newfound political dalliance with ODM leader Raila Odinga—whom he once accused of sabotaging Uhuru Kenyatta’s leadership—has left many Mt. Kenya loyalists uneasy.

“Yes, the President should visit, but now is simply not the right time. He should wait until tensions cool,” an MP from Ruto’s camp confided to the media.

Further escalating tensions, a recent snub by local government officials at an event hosted by Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has sparked speculation of growing fractures within the ruling party. Once Ruto’s most vocal foot soldier, Nyoro has reportedly had limited contact with the President since October—coinciding with the impeachment of Gachagua, which he notably distanced himself from.

Some leaders argue that Ruto’s visit should be postponed to avoid reinforcing the perception that his administration has abandoned Mt. Kenya. Instead of making fresh promises, they suggest showcasing tangible achievements to counter the lingering narrative of broken pledges.

However, others insist that canceling the tour would be a sign of weakness, handing Gachagua an easy victory in the ongoing political chess game. MPs Njoroge Wainaina (Kieni), John Mutunga (Tigania East), and Eric Wamumbi (Mathira) are leading efforts to ensure the tour goes on, with plans to mobilize massive crowds to give Ruto a hero’s welcome.

“The President must come. He has visited every part of the country—why should Mt. Kenya be an exception?” Wainaina stated, dismissing claims that state resources are being used to drum up support.

Meanwhile, political strategists on both sides are scrambling to either solidify or sabotage the tour, with key players rallying supporters, erecting billboards, and planning events to shape the visit’s narrative.

With Ruto’s allies deeply divided and the stakes sky-high, his next move will determine whether he emerges stronger—or if this marks a turning point in the shifting Mt. Kenya power dynamics.