Kindiki Blasts Gachagua for ‘Tribal Politics and Empty Threats’ as Rift Widens
NAIROBI, Kenya – The rift between Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and his predecessor Rigathi Gachagua deepened Sunday, as Kindiki issued a blistering response to accusations leveled against him by the former second-in-command.
In a sharply worded statement shared online, Kindiki accused Gachagua of “clinging to relevance” by inciting tribal politics, spreading falsehoods, and stoking public anger.
“You have built your political career on hollow threats, arrogance, and personal attacks. We will not allow that to distract the country from its mission,” Kindiki said.
Gachagua had earlier claimed that Kindiki and other government officials orchestrated chaos during his recent tour of Meru County. Speaking at a rally in Buuri, Gachagua alleged that youth were paid Ksh 3 million to disrupt his events by lighting bonfires and blocking roads in Tigania East.
“They brought youths and gave them money, but the people still chanted ‘One Term!’” Gachagua told the crowd, in reference to growing dissent in the Mt. Kenya region toward President William Ruto’s administration.
He further alleged that senior clergy from the African Independent Pentecostal Church of Africa (AIPCA) were pressured by State House to deny him a platform.
“They’re using the presidency to intimidate bishops. This is dictatorship. The church must remain independent,” Gachagua said.
Kindiki rejected the claims and accused Gachagua of fueling ethnic divisions for personal gain. He warned that such conduct would be challenged directly if it continued.
“You are gravely mistaken in your assumptions. We will not tolerate political theatrics at the expense of national unity,” Kindiki said.
Tensions escalated over the weekend after reports of roadblocks and burning tires in parts of Meru, allegedly staged to stop Gachagua’s motorcade. No arrests were reported as of Sunday evening, but residents confirmed the presence of crowds and disrupted traffic.
Gachagua framed his campaign as a call for the Mt. Kenya region to reclaim its political footing, accusing President Ruto and Kindiki of sidelining the community. He said no amount of money or intimidation would suppress dissent.
“Even if you spend Ksh 100 billion, this mountain is gone. Remove the mountain from your 2027 plan,” he said.
The conflict between the two leaders highlights growing political fault lines within the Kenya Kwanza coalition, particularly as 2027 election talk intensifies. While President Ruto has not publicly commented on the feud, allies from both camps have continued to trade barbs across media platforms.
As pressure builds in the Mt. Kenya region, both leaders appear to be digging in for a prolonged political contest. The matter remains fluid, with further developments expected as nationwide protests and political realignments unfold.
