Tensions ran high in Kirinyaga County on Monday, October 13, as hundreds of residents took to the streets in protest against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, following remarks he made during a church service the previous day.
Images and videos from the scene showed demonstrators mostly women marching through the streets carrying placards in support of Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru.
The protesters, identifying as loyal supporters of the governor, denounced Gachagua’s comments and accused him of disrespecting women in leadership.
Some placards read “The Choice is Ours” and “Respect Women Leaders,” underscoring the anger sparked by Gachagua’s criticism of Waiguru.
The protests also led to traffic disruptions along the busy Kutus–Samson Road, as demonstrators lit bonfires and blocked parts of the highway, prompting intervention from local authorities.
One protester voiced frustration at Gachagua’s attempts to rally the Mt. Kenya region against certain leaders.
“He should remember the governor didn’t appoint herself we voted her in. So when he insults her, he’s insulting the people of Kirinyaga,” she said.
Another protester suggested that political rivals were influencing Gachagua for their own gain.
“Those pushing him to attack Waiguru are only interested in her seat. But we are the voters, and we will decide who leads us next,” she said.
The protests followed Gachagua’s fiery speech on Sunday, October 12, at Ambassador of Christ Church in Mwea, where he sharply criticized Waiguru and other Mt. Kenya leaders allegedly aligned with the Kenya Kwanza government.
The former deputy president accused them of working with President William Ruto to divide opposition votes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Wherever I go in Mt. Kenya, I will be calling out the traitors by name whether man or woman so our people know who they are,” Gachagua declared. “We will not allow the President to finish this community politically.”
He specifically singled out Governor Waiguru, alleging she was plotting to form a new political party and position herself for a senatorial bid in 2027, as she cannot serve a third term as governor.
Gachagua also blamed Kirinyaga leaders, including Waiguru, for the ongoing plight of rice farmers in Mwea.
He claimed their silence had paved the way for government plans to import rice, harming local producers.
Gachagua’s remarks appear to have deepened divisions within the Mt. Kenya political landscape. Over the weekend, some of his allies faced hostility during public appearances.
In Mbeere South, Member of Parliament Nebart Muriuki was forced to flee when a crowd turned unruly during a stopover at Kiritiri Market, where he was scheduled to address residents.
The growing tension reflects a broader political rift in the region, as leaders jostle for influence ahead of the 2027 elections.
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