Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire has sparked a political storm after accusing unnamed senior government officials of plotting to weaken her leadership from within her own party.
Speaking during Madaraka Day celebrations in Mbeere South on 1 June, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) chairperson made a bold claim: powerful figures in Nairobi are working behind closed doors to undermine her authority.
“These officers from Nairobi are coming to hold night meetings to fight elected leaders,” Mbarire told a crowd gathered at Makima Primary School. “They lack respect and pretend to understand our local politics.”
Her remarks have brought long-simmering tensions in Kenya’s ruling party to the surface. Mbarire, a close ally of President William Ruto and a vocal supporter of his administration, said she feels betrayed by colleagues inside the system she has helped uphold.
“I have stood firm for this government. Yet, some people inside it are now working against me,” she added, without naming names.
Though Mbarire did not offer specific evidence or identify those allegedly involved, her statement has stirred debate across the political spectrum.
UDA Infighting Goes Public
Her complaints come at a time when UDA is facing increased internal friction. What was once seen as a tightly knit party is now showing signs of deep division.
In a response that underlined the seriousness of the issue, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale dismissed Mbarire’s concerns with a mix of empathy and political realism.
“Governor Mbarire, that’s how politics works. Don’t cry, just move on,” Khalwale said, referring to similar struggles faced by other UDA veterans, including former Machakos Senator Johnson Muthama.
Mbarire, however, insists she will not be intimidated. She warned those targeting her that she is prepared to fight back. “If they push me, I will name names. Let them try me,” she said.
Political Consequences Loom
Mbarire’s remarks raise broader questions about political loyalty and power dynamics ahead of Kenya’s 2027 general elections.
Analysts say the UDA, formed in 2021 and central to Ruto’s presidential campaign, is now grappling with internal rivalries as leaders jostle for influence.
“Her speech shows that UDA is no longer immune to internal sabotage,” said one political observer who asked not to be named, citing the growing discontent among party stalwarts.
Despite the storm, Mbarire has not backed down. She has reaffirmed her support for President Ruto and says she remains committed to serving the people of Embu.
But her message to those within the corridors of power was unmistakably clear: “Let Satan be defeated,” she said, using a common Kiswahili phrase, “Shetani ashindwe,” to underscore her resolve.
As the dust settles, one thing is certain—Mbarire’s outcry has exposed fault lines within Kenya’s ruling party that the leadership can no longer ignore.
