Members of the Kikuyu community have taken to social media to express their displeasure after KANU chairman Gideon Moi joined President William Ruto’s broad-based government in the run-up to the 2027 presidential election.
Moi, who had earlier announced his intention to contest the Baringo senatorial seat in the upcoming by-election scheduled for November 27th, unexpectedly withdrew from the race and endorsed the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) candidate, Vincent Chemitei. His decision came shortly after a meeting with President Ruto at State House, Nairobi.
With the 2027 general election fast approaching—and growing political pressure from the Gen Z movement—President Ruto appears keen to consolidate his support base by bringing on board as many allies as possible.
On Thursday, Ruto hosted a grand celebration in Kabarnet to welcome Gideon Moi into his fold. The event, described by attendees as a “state-sponsored feast,” saw several speakers commend the president for fostering unity within the Kalenjin community.
However, this show of solidarity did not sit well with some members of the Kikuyu community. Many took to online platforms to question why calls for unity among the Kalenjin or other ethnic groups are celebrated, yet when Kikuyu leaders advocate for the same, they are quickly branded as tribalists.
According to the commenters, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua was merely encouraging the Kikuyu and the broader Mt. Kenya region to unite politically—yet he was vilified, impeached, and labeled a tribalist for doing so.
Below are some of the reactions from Mt. Kenya residents who feel that their leaders are unfairly judged whenever they call for unity among their people.
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