Mt Kenya at crossroads: Kanu’s Sakina blasts Gachagua, backs Kindiki succession path

A sharp political rift is emerging in Mt Kenya as leaders intensify early positioning ahead of the next election.

Kanu's Kiambu secretary John Sakina has mounted a fierce defence of President William Ruto’s administration while directly criticising former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s growing influence in the region.

Sakina claimed Gachagua is pursuing confrontational and divisive politics that risk alienating Mt Kenya from national decision-making centres.

In a meeting with dozens of Kanu delegates from Mt Kenya at the weekend, he argued the region’s political strength depends on remaining aligned to the government rather than drifting into opposition formations.

In his remarks, Sakina urged residents to rally behind Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, describing the current leadership as a pathway to sustained influence and development benefits.

He portrayed Kindiki as a unifying and competent figure, capable of steering governance reforms while maintaining stability.

“Kindiki is focused and capable. Being a professor, he understands governance and policy. He should not be distracted by political noise but concentrate on delivering on his mandate,” he said.

The Kanu official also took issue with what he termed personal attacks against Kindiki, warning that political ridicule and tribal undertones could deepen regional divisions. He called for respect among leaders and a shift towards issue-based politics anchored on development.

Drawing from biblical analogies, Sakina cautioned that ridicule and divisive politics could have far-reaching consequences, urging leaders to embrace tolerance and mutual respect.

Sakina further projected confidence in a future political arrangement that could see Mt Kenya regain top leadership positions, suggesting that supporting the current administration would secure long-term strategic gains for the region.

The Kanu strongman urged Mt Kenya residents to remain firmly within Ruto’s political orbit, dismissing calls for rebellion against the administration as short-sighted.

“We are close to power. This is our time. President Ruto has a clear development agenda and supporting him gives this region a direct line to decision-making. Turning against him now would be self-sabotage,” he added.

Sakina expressed confidence that Ruto would honour a presumed succession understanding that could see Kindiki rise to the presidency in future, a move he said would cement Mt Kenya’s return to the apex of national leadership.

“William Ruto is a truthful person and is highly likely to honour his promise. That way, Mt Kenya will get back to the reins as they wish,” he said.

Sakina also cautioned elected leaders from the region against being intimidated by anti-government slogans, urging them to focus on service delivery.

“Those MPs working with Ruto should not be scared by chants like ‘one term’ or ‘no recycling’. Their development record will speak for them at the ballot,” he noted.

Sakina said the region stands at a delicate crossroads, with leaders split between those backing the government and those leaning towards opposition politics.

“You cannot fight everyone and expect to build a nation. Leadership requires collaboration. You cannot dictate terms to everyone and expect support,” he said.

Sakina called for a return to issue-based politics anchored on unity, development and national cohesion, invoking past leadership eras that emphasised inclusivity.

“We want a country defined by love, peace and unity. Leaders must rise above personal differences and focus on what unites Kenyans,” he said.

His remarks highlight growing political realignments in Mt Kenya, where competing factions aligned to government and opposition camps are increasingly defining the region’s role in national politics ahead of 2027.