A fresh political storm is brewing in the Mt. Kenya region after former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria lashed out at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and his allies, accusing them of arrogance and poor leadership.
Kuria’s anger followed the rejection of his recent call for unity in the mountain, which he had made on the condition that Gachagua stops verbally attacking women leaders.
“After my offer to work with our self-declared kingpin on condition he stops insulting women leaders, this is how his kitchen cabinet has responded to my offer for regional unity,” Kuria posted on X.
He went on to criticize Gachagua’s leadership style, saying it pales in comparison to that of Kenya’s previous Mt. Kenya power figures such as Jomo Kenyatta, Mwai Kibaki, and Uhuru Kenyatta.
“The problem with Rigathi Gachagua is that, unlike Jomo Kenyatta, Mwai Kibaki, and Uhuru Kenyatta, he surrounds himself with rookies and political amateurs. The bar has fallen too low,” Kuria remarked.
War of Words Escalates
Kuria’s comments came shortly after Kiambu Senator Karungo Thangwa, a close Gachagua ally, dismissed his overture, claiming that Kuria was acting on instructions from President William Ruto to divide the Mt. Kenya vote base.
“Moses Kuria, we’ve seen your move. Riggy G is not someone who takes instructions. If anything, it’s Ruto who receives them,” Thangwa fired back.
The Senator further mocked Kuria, saying he must first “seek acceptance” from the people of Kiambu before attempting to join Gachagua’s Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP).
“Before you even think of joining DCP, start by winning over your home county. You’ll have to pass through me first,” Thangwa said.
Mount Kenya Rift Deepens
The heated exchange signals growing cracks between two of Mt. Kenya’s most prominent political figures — a rivalry that has quickly become one to watch ahead of the 2027 elections.
Kuria, who has also served as Trade Cabinet Secretary and Presidential Economic Advisor, has in recent weeks urged Mt. Kenya leaders to focus on unity and development instead of constant political fights.
Just days earlier, he publicly called on Gachagua to show restraint and uphold respect when addressing fellow leaders — particularly women.
“To my brother Rigathi Gachagua, you are ahead of the rest of us. Our people listen to you, and you are edging closer to being the undisputed kingpin in the Mountain. But kindly refrain from insulting our leaders, especially our women,” Kuria appealed.
He hinted at a possible reconciliation, comparing his situation to the partnership between President Ruto and Gideon Moi, but maintained that respect must come first.
“It doesn’t suit your status as a regional kingpin to demean others. Kindly, sir — with profound respect,” he concluded.
Gachagua, however, has recently accused some leaders of being “bought” to weaken his influence — remarks that have drawn backlash for being divisive and disrespectful.
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