Ruto Unveils 10 Powerful Leaders To Counter Gachagua’s Influence In Mount Kenya

President William Ruto has quietly handpicked a group of influential leaders and technocrats tasked with neutralising the growing political grip of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in the Mount Kenya region.

Faced with the looming threat of serving only one term, Ruto has crafted a formidable team that will traverse the vote-rich region, promoting his policies and shoring up support ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The strategy, described as a layered political offensive, ropes in Cabinet Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, state agency chiefs, board chairpersons and directors—all drawn from Mount Kenya.

Ruto is keenly aware that losing the region, which delivered nearly half of the votes that secured his ascent to State House in 2022, would severely endanger his reelection prospects.

Gachagua, who now commands an almost cult-like following in the area, has fuelled resentment towards Ruto. Winning back the electorate, insiders note, is as difficult as “selling pork in Saudi Arabia.”

Nonetheless, the President is banking on his team of professionals and state officials to reverse the tide and restore his influence in the region.

Those entrusted with curbing Gachagua’s rising dominance include Cabinet Secretaries William Kabogo (ICT), Alice Wahome (Lands), Mutahi Kagwe (Agriculture), Mary Miano (Tourism), Erick Muriithi (Water), and Geoffrey Ruku (Public Service).

They will be supported by Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni, Deputy Head of Public Service Amos Gathecha, and Principal Secretaries Esther Mworia (TVET), Alex Wachira (Energy), Dr. Caroline Karugu (EAC), and Elijah Mwangi (Sports).