Political tensions within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) intensified Thursday as Mbeere North MP Geoffrey Ruku, a close ally of President William Ruto, detailed the push from Meru and Embu leaders to replace Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki as the region’s spokesperson.

“We have decided as a region to take a different political journey because our cousins from the West have taken advantage of us,” Ruku remarked, referencing the perception of political exclusion and underdevelopment in the Mt. Kenya East region. He criticized the lack of infrastructure, stating, “We don’t have good roads, water connection, or electricity… our development plans are in limbo.”

In response, Gatanga MP Edward Muriu dismissed the calls to remove Gachagua, labeling them as political gimmicks.

“If they feel that the Deputy President is not working, then they should go ahead and remove him from the position; there are mechanisms in place for that,” Muriu asserted.

He contended that President Ruto chose Gachagua for his ability to command votes, stating, “What will matter is who will be able to bring the votes.”

As the rivalry intensifies, UDA politicians continue to express divergent views on leadership and strategy. “Kenyans are waiting for the things we put in our manifesto; let us focus on service delivery,” Muriu urged, calling for unity in purpose amidst rising tensions.