Wamuzi News Ke
In a bombshell declaration that could reshape Kenya’s political fault lines, senior presidential advisor Makau Mutua has issued a stark warning to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua: your reign in Mt Kenya may be crumbling.
The trigger? Emerging power plays spearheaded by former Attorney General Justin Muturi in recent by-election maneuvers.
Muturi’s Surge: The Usurpation Begins.
Lawyer Makau Mutua, using social media as his platform, has raised the alarm that Muturi is no longer just an ally, but a legitimate contender for leadership in the region.
The latest flashpoint: in the Mbeere North by-election, Muturi, through his Democratic Party, fielded Newton Karish (popularly known as “Newton Kariuki”) as their candidate—while Gachagua’s Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) opted not to field its own candidate and instead backed the DP’s nominee.
Mutua accused Gachagua of retreating in that contestant battle, conceding ground he once dominated. “Is Justin Muturi positioning himself to dethrone Rigathi Gachagua in Mt Kenya? The latter caved in the contest for Mbeere North after a bruising boardroom fight with the former,” Mutua wrote.
Collision Course: Mutual Assertions & Public Struggle.
Justin Muturi isn’t being subtle. In public speeches, he has rejected the notion of Mt Kenya’s political loyalty being dictated or monopolized by any one leader. He has emphasized the constitutional right to democratic choice and membership in any political party—an indirect rebuke of perceived pressure for uniformity under the Gachagua political machine.
Meanwhile, Gachagua has protested that alliances and political obligations under the opposition pact (notably with the Democratic Party) require compromise. His decision to support DP’s candidate in Mbeere North has been framed as an act of partnership and regional unity ahead of the 2027 general elections. But opposition insiders say the move may have been more forced than voluntary.
Stakes: What is at Risk for Gachagua.
Leadership Credibility: Gachagua’s dominance in Mt Kenya has long been seen as unchallenged. If Muturi’s rise is allowed unchecked, Gachagua could lose both symbolic and practical control of the region.
Party Influence: The DCP’s decision to stand down in Mbeere North suggests a weakening willingness or ability to consistently project strength. Muturi and DP are gaining leverage for 2027.
Support Base Erosion: Grassroots leaders, local elders, and regional influencers may begin to hedge their bets, aligning with whoever seems likely to control Mt Kenya. Gains now may shift the loyalty landscape.
