Uhuru-Gachagua embrace signals Mt Kenya political shift
Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have jointly called for unity in the Mt Kenya region, saying its cohesion will play a decisive role in shaping Kenya’s political future ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The two leaders made the appeal during the burial of former Kirinyaga Senator Daniel Karaba in Kirinyaga Central Constituency, where they publicly embraced for the first time since the last election, signaling a possible political rapprochement.
Addressing mourners, Kenyatta urged residents of the mountain region to remain united and vigilant against political manipulation.
He cautioned against leaders who make attractive promises but fail to deliver, warning that persuasive rhetoric can easily mislead voters.
“It is good to listen to leaders… politicians have a sweet tongue,” Kenyatta said, likening political charm to deception that can sway critical decisions.
He encouraged voters to elect leaders who are honest, principled, and focused on development rather than personal ambition or ethnic division.
The former President also took issue with some religious leaders, accusing them of playing a role in misleading the public.
He urged the clergy to focus on their spiritual mandate and avoid partisan politics.
“I plead with you, respectfully… guide people spiritually and leave earthly matters to leaders who understand them,” he said.
Kenyatta reiterated that his past political cooperation with Raila Odinga was driven by a desire to unite the country, not personal gain.
He emphasised that Kenya’s progress depends on leaders who prioritize service, integrity, and national cohesion over tribal politics.
“Our country needs unity for peace, stability and progress,” he said, adding that leadership should be anchored on policies and principles rather than ethnic divisions.
He also challenged young people to remain firm in their values and avoid selling their votes, even when offered money during election periods.
On his part, Gachagua declared that the Mt Kenya region remains firmly united and vowed to strengthen alliances aimed at unseating President William Ruto in the next election cycle.
He accused the President of attempting to divide communities for political gain and pledged to work with like-minded leaders to consolidate opposition strength.
“We will not allow the Mountain to be divided,” Gachagua said, emphasizing his commitment to building a formidable political front.
Several opposition leaders echoed the unity message, including Kalonzo Musyoka, Eugene Wamalwa, Fred Matiang’i, Martha Karua, Justin Muturi, and James Orengo.
The leaders stressed that unity within both the Mt Kenya region and the broader opposition will be critical in determining the country’s political direction, as momentum builds toward the 2027 General Election.
