A political rift appears to be brewing within Mt. Kenya leadership following remarks by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua suggesting the region owes a "political debt" to Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka.
Mathira MP Eric Wamumbi has come out strongly to oppose these sentiments, sparking a public exchange that has drawn significant attention.
Gachagua, during a recent visit to Mbooni in Makueni County, hinted at the possibility of Mt. Kenya rallying behind Kalonzo in the 2027 presidential race.
He attributed this to Kalonzo's support for the late President Mwai Kibaki during his tenure.
According to Gachagua, Kalonzo's past contributions warrant reciprocation from the region.
Wamumbi, however, was quick to challenge this narrative. "How do we justify supporting Kalonzo when we haven't even resolved our own region's pressing issues? It's misleading," he said.
The Mathira MP accused Gachagua of diverting attention from critical challenges facing the region, particularly in the agricultural sector.
"Farmers in Mt. Kenya are struggling, coffee producers are fighting for fair returns, and instead of addressing this, we’re talking about debts to Kalonzo?" Wamumbi argued.
He further alleged there are hidden agendas involving the misappropriation of funds meant to uplift coffee farmers.
This public clash has added tension to an already strained relationship between the two leaders.
While Wamumbi was once seen as an ally of Gachagua, their differences have grown sharper, especially after Gachagua's impeachment as Deputy President.
Wamumbi's critics claim he betrayed Gachagua during the impeachment process, an allegation he has denied.
The tension escalates as some Mathira residents have initiated a signature drive aimed at recalling Wamumbi from office.
They accuse him of neglecting his duties and turning against the interests of his constituents.
"This isn’t about personal disputes. It’s about holding our leaders accountable," a resident reportedly said.
On the other hand, political observers believe Gachagua's remarks about Kalonzo could be a strategic move to realign Mt. Kenya’s political alliances ahead of 2027.
However, critics like Wamumbi argue the focus should remain on solving immediate regional issues rather than engaging in speculative political debts.
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