During a public address on Tuesday, Ichung'wah disclosed previously unknown details about how the President selected key members of his Cabinet, with a particular focus on the appointment of the new Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock.
According to Ichung'wah, President Ruto did not make the decision in isolation. Instead, he sought the input of Members of Parliament (MPs) from Kiambu County, a region within the larger Mt Kenya area, which has traditionally been a significant political stronghold. The MPs consulted by the President were all members of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the party that Ruto leads.
The process, as described by Ichung'wah, involved President Ruto personally approaching these MPs and entrusting them with the responsibility of identifying a suitable candidate for the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock.
However, Ichung'wah's revelations were not just about the Cabinet selection process; they also included pointed remarks directed at Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Ichung'wah subtly criticized Gachagua, suggesting that the Deputy President has been neglecting his national duties.
According to Ichung'wah, Gachagua has been more focused on regional politics, particularly efforts to unite the Mt Kenya region, rather than concentrating on his broader responsibilities as Deputy President.
These comments have highlighted the growing tensions within the UDA party, especially between Ichung'wah and Gachagua. The relationship between the two leaders has reportedly been strained, with recent events indicating that a significant rift may be developing within the party.
This internal discord comes at a critical time, as the country begins to look ahead to the next general elections.
The rift within the UDA party could have broader implications for the political landscape in Kenya. As the ruling party, any significant divisions within its ranks could affect its ability to govern effectively and maintain public confidence.
Furthermore, the tension between Ichung'wah and Gachagua could potentially influence the dynamics of the Mt Kenya region, a key battleground in Kenyan politics.
President Ruto's decision to involve MPs from Kiambu County in the selection of his Cabinet is seen by some as a strategic move to strengthen his support base in the region.
By giving these MPs a direct role in the decision-making process, Ruto may be seeking to ensure their continued loyalty and the backing of the broader Mt Kenya electorate.
However, Ichung'wah's remarks suggest that not all is well within the party's upper echelons. If the rift between Ichung'wah and Gachagua continues to widen, it could pose challenges for the UDA party as it prepares for future electoral contests.
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